What Risks Does ICP Pose for Pregnant Women?
Fortunately, ICP does not normally present any dangerous risks for the mother. However, it can present potentially serious risks for the baby, including: • Premature birth (up to 44% of women with ICP deliver before 37 weeks gestation) • Hemorrhaging • Fetal Distress • Stillbirth Getting Diagnosed for ICP The good news is that early diagnosis can significantly reduce the risk of any ICP-related pregnancy complications. However, since itching is often the only symptom pregnant women will experience, it is often overlooked as a common sign of pregnancy. However, there are tests that can be performed in order to determine whether or not a woman does in fact have ICP: Serum Bile Acid Test: Perhaps the most accurate determinant of ICP, the bile acid test measures whether or not bile acid levels are elevated beyond the normal range. Normally, women are required to fast prior to the test to ensure the most accurate results, however, this is not always a requirement. Note: The problem with the
