Ambulance 912HAP 9252
Back to all symptoms and conditions
General health information

Cholestasis in pregnancy

Cholestasis in pregnancy is a liver condition in which bile acid levels in the blood rise. Severe itching without a clear rash, often on the palms and soles and worse at night, is typical. The condition usually resolves after birth, but may increase risks for the baby. New severe itching or a reduction in the baby's movements therefore needs prompt assessment.

In this article
Choose which sections to read

  • Cholestasis in pregnancy, also called intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy or ICP, is a temporary liver condition. Bile acid levels rise in the blood and often cause severe itching without an initial rash.
  • Itching often affects the palms and soles but may occur anywhere and is frequently worse at night. The location or intensity of itching alone cannot establish the diagnosis.
  • Blood tests for bile acids and liver function are needed. Repeat tests may be required if itching continues, because symptoms sometimes start before a measurable abnormality.
  • For the pregnant person, the condition is usually mainly very distressing; for the baby, raised bile acids may carry risks. The midwife or obstetrician therefore determines the ongoing pregnancy plan.
  • Call your maternity team immediately if the baby moves less or differently. Outside office hours, the out-of-hours GP service (HAP) on 9252 provides urgent GP care; Ambulance 912 is only for immediate danger to life.

Your response

Two anonymous questions

Did you find what you were looking for?

Do you now have a clearer idea of your next step?

Share article

Email

Do you need a healthcare provider after reading?

Search by type of care, organisation, name or district.

Further reading

Browse A–Z
P
Pregnancy and itchingItching during pregnancy is often caused by dry or stretched skin. However, severe itching without an obvious rash, especially on the palms and soles and at night, may be obstetric cholestasis. Have this assessed the same day with bile acid and liver tests, and call immediately for reduced baby movements.
I
ItchingItching is an irritating sensation that makes you want to scratch or rub. It may affect one area or the whole body. Dry skin or a skin condition is often responsible, but itching can sometimes signal allergy, infection, parasites, a medicine reaction or liver, kidney or blood disease. Take extra care during pregnancy, or with breathlessness, swelling or rapidly worsening illness.
B
Bruised nailA nail may turn blue, dark red or black when blood is trapped beneath it after a blow, pressure or tight shoes. A small bruise usually grows out with the nail, but severe pain, major damage or discolouration without injury needs assessment.