A 44-year-old member asked:
How is cholestasis of pregnancy diagnosed?
2 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in

Dr. Hector Chapaanswered
Obstetrics and Gynecology 26 years experience
History/Physical/Lab: Cholestasis is diagnosed by doing a complete medical history, physical examination, and blood tests that evaluate liver function, bile acids, and bilirubin. Additionally, an ultrasound can de done to rule out gall bladder stones causing blockage. 1-2 preg/1000 is affected by cholestasis of pregnancy. It may be related to adverse pregnancy events like preterm labor, or at worse, stillbirth.
5.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Miguel Canoanswered
Obstetrics and Gynecology 31 years experience
Bile Acid levels: Cholestasis of pregnancy presents with total body itching, usually no rash, & diagnosis is usually made with an elevated level of bile acids. We also follow liver functions, treat with ursodiol (actigall) & monitor the fetus with twice weekly nsts & afi checks. Early delivery is usually warranted to avoid demise, no one really has a good explanation why this occurs. Take care.
5.6k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Similar questions
A 39-year-old member asked:
What is cholestasis of pregnancy?
2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in

Dr. Hector Chapaanswered
Obstetrics and Gynecology 26 years experience
See below please: Cholestasis of pregnancy is a condition in which the normal flow of bile in the gallbladder is affected by the high amounts of pregnancy hormones. Cholestasis is more common in the last trimester of pregnancy. 1-2 pregnancies/1000 are affected by cholestasis. In severe cases, but not all, cholestasis may increase the risks for fetal distress, preterm birth, or stillbirth. Blood tests are key.
5.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Dec 9, 2013
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