7. Obstetric Cholestasis (OC)

• This is a liver disease that can develop late in pregnancy, often from 28weeks but can develop earlier in pregnancy too. 

• The symptom is severe topical itching usually on the hands, feet, abdomen or all over body – often worse at night. 

• Symptoms may present worse on the palm of hands and soles of feet. 

• Other symptoms include dark urine and pale poo. 

• Having a robust antenatal monitoring system in place will optimise pregnancy outcomes. 

• Cholestasis usually goes away after baby is born. 

Management to improve outcomes: 

• Urgently call your health professional if you notice such symptoms. 

• Attend all prenatal appointments throughout your pregnancy. 

• Adhere to the Care Pathway developed for you to manage your pregnancy. 

• Comply with the treatment regime commenced all through your pregnancy. 

• Read and inform yourself about the condition and management and take ownership of it.