Cholestasis

A decrease in bile flow from the gallbladder. Causes include:

• Cholelithiasis.
• Hormones due to 3rd-trimester pregnancy or contraceptives.

Unresolved cholestasis can lead to cholecystitis, peritonitis, and death.

Cholestasis of Pregnancy

Cholestasis of pregnancy develops during the third trimester due to an increase in ??? hormones, and increases the risk to the fetus. Signs and symptoms of cholestasis of pregnancy include:

• Itching in hands and feet (that may spread to other body parts).
• Dark urine.
• Elevated bile levels in blood.

Elevated blood bile poses a risk to the fetus.