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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffCholestasis of pregnancy occurs in late pregnancy and triggers intense itching, particularly on the hands and feet.
By definition, cholestasis is any condition in which the flow of bile — a digestive fluid — from the liver is blocked. Extrahepatic cholestasis occurs outside the liver. Intrahepatic cholestasis occurs inside the liver. Pregnancy is one of many possible causes of intrahepatic cholestasis. Other names for cholestasis of pregnancy include obstetric cholestasis and intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy.
Other than intense itching, cholestasis of pregnancy poses few problems for mothers. Cholestasis of pregnancy can be dangerous for a developing baby, however. Early delivery is usually recommended.
- Bacq Y. Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Aug. 21, 2009.
- Geenes V, et al. Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. World Journal of Gastroenterology. 2009;15:2049.
- Liver disorders in pregnancy. March of Dimes. http://www.marchofdimes.com/professionals/14332_14543.asp. Accessed Aug. 24, 2009.
- Riely CA, et al. Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. Clinics in Liver Disease. 2004;8:167.
- Skin conditions during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp169.cfm. Accessed Aug. 24, 2009.
- Cappell MS. Hepatic and gastrointestinal diseases. In: Gabbe SG, et al. Obstetrics: Normal and Problem Pregnancies. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/156403804-2/0/1528/432.html?tocnode=57028110&fromURL=432.html. Accessed Aug. 24, 2009.
- Burrows R, et al. Interventions for treating cholestasis in pregnancy. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2009:CD000493.
- SAMe. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. http://www.naturaldatabase.com. Accessed Sept. 9, 2009.
