Most pregnancies advance without serious complications. However, some conditions require close medical monitoring because they can increase risks for both mother and baby. One such condition is intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), a liver disorder that can develop in the third trimester.
What is cholestasis of pregnancy?
ICP affects the normal flow of bile from the liver. The most common symptom of ICP is itchiness, especially on hands and feet, mostly without a rash. Doctors generally diagnose ICP using a combination of blood tests that can measure bile acid levels and evaluate liver function.
Once doctors diagnose ICP, they usually recommend closer monitoring throughout the remainder of the pregnancy. The reason for this heightened monitoring is that the risks associated with ICP can change as the pregnancy progresses.
Why is careful monitoring important?
Many women with ICP end up having a healthy pregnancy, but there is an increased risk of fetal distress, preterm labor and in extreme cases, stillbirth. For this reason, healthcare providers might recommend additional testing, regular fetal monitoring and careful planning of delivery based on the mother’s condition.
Because the risk can change as the pregnancy progresses, timely follow-up appointments and continuous monitoring are an important part of managing the condition.
When can medical malpractice concerns arise?
A poor outcome does not necessarily mean that medical malpractice happened. However, questions might arise if symptoms were overlooked, appropriate testing was delayed or the pregnancy was not carefully monitored after the ICP diagnosis.
Many women with ICP can have a healthy delivery with appropriate medical care. However, as this condition can increase the risks, timely diagnosis and careful monitoring are important. If any serious complications happen, reviewing the medical care given can help determine whether the acceptable standard of care was followed.
