The term is used to describe jaundice like condition seen during pregnancy, usually in the last few months.

Reason:
Cholestasis occurs due to the stagnation of bile in the gall bladder due to the action of hormones that are increased during pregnancy. The bile acids are not cleared adequately and the levels increase in the blood.

Symptoms:
Itching all over the body, yellowing of the eyes, yellowish colored urine and pale stools are features of obstetric cholestasis.

Precautions:
There are no ways of preventing the condition. It occurs more in the first pregnancy. An ultrasound is necessary to exclude stones in the gall bladder.

Treatment:
Lotions applied over the areas of itching and anti histaminics help to relieve the itching. Careful supervision of the remaining pregnancy needs to be done, as complications of the baby are known to be associated with this condition. The baby needs to be given vitamin K injections soon after delivery.