The condition giving rise to obstetric cholestasis claims for medical negligence compensation affects about 1% of women during pregnancy and is a liver disorder caused by a reduced production of bile fluids which causes temporary itching, particularly on the hands and feet, which disappears within a few weeks after delivery. The condition poses a serious risk of harm to the baby and unless it is recognized promptly and treated properly can be fatal to the unborn child. Mothers who suffer from this condition will need to have their baby delivered early to help prevent the possibility of stillbirth and there are usually increases in intensity in subsequent pregnancies.
The condition is due to high levels of oestrogen produced during pregnancy inhibiting bile flow and concentrating bile salts in the blood, resulting in itching and occasionally jaundice, which can result in stillbirth. It is often a hereditary condition and can skip several generations. Any pregnant woman who is itching more than normal should have blood tests for evaluation of liver function. Whilst the condition is relatively rare and healthcare professionals are often not knowledgeable about the proper remedial procedures, obstetric cholestasis claims are not uncommon.
The itching usually starts on the soles of the feet and the palms, extending to the rest of the body and is usually worst during the night. Mild jaundice affects about 20% of patients and some babies are born jaundiced. Mothers may suffer from malabsorption of vitamins, worsening maternal nutrition and there is about a 20% risk of postpartum haemorrhage which may be caused by inadequate absorption of vitamin K, which is needed for the blood to clot.
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