What causes obstetric cholestasis?
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The exact cause is not clear. It is thought that hormonal and genetic factors may be responsible.
- Hormone factors. Pregnancy causes an increase in oestrogen and progestogen hormones. These can affect the liver in a way which slows down the rate of bile passing out along the tiny bile ducts. Some pregnant women may be more sensitive to these hormone effects.
- Genetic factors. Obstetric cholestasis seems to run in some families (although it may skip some generations). One theory is that women who develop obstetric cholestasis may inherit a slight problem with the way bile is made and passes down the bile ducts. This does not matter when not pregnant. However, the high level of hormones made during pregnancy may 'tip the balance' to cause a much reduced flow of bile.
There may be other environmental factors which contribute. However, whatever the underlying cause, the pregnancy 'triggers' the problem. Within a week or so after giving birth the symptoms clear and there is no long term problem with the liver.
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Where to next?
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How is obstetric cholestasis diagnosed?
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Understanding the liver, bile and and bile ducts
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What is obstetric cholestasis?
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What causes obstetric cholestasis?
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What are the symptoms of obstetric cholestasis?
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Is obstetric cholestasis serious?
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What is the treatment for obstetric cholestasis?
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Further sources of information and help
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Contraception: The Coil
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Pregnancy and smoking
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What causes miscarriage?
