Cholestasis of Pregnancy at 16 Weeks Pregnant
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is a liver condition causing intense itching, especially on the hands and feet, in the third trimester. It requires medical evaluation as it is associated with increased risk of stillbirth.
👶 What's Happening at Week 16
Your baby is now the size of a avocado.
- The musculoskeletal system is maturing — movements become more coordinated.
- Toenails begin growing.
- The circulatory system is fully functional.
🔬 Why You're Experiencing Cholestasis of Pregnancy at Week 16
- Pregnancy hormones impair normal bile flow from the liver, causing bile acids to accumulate in the blood
- Genetic predisposition — more common in women with a family history or South American ancestry
- Twin or multiple pregnancy increases risk
- Prior liver conditions increase susceptibility
💊 Relief Tips for Week 16
📋 Other Week 16 Symptoms
⚠️ Call Your Doctor If…
- Intense itching on your palms and soles, especially at night, in the third trimester
- Itching all over your body without a visible rash
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice) — less common but important
- Dark urine or pale/gray stools
Frequently Asked Questions
How is cholestasis diagnosed?
Your provider will order a blood test measuring serum bile acid levels and liver function tests (ALT, AST). A bile acid level above 10 µmol/L confirms the diagnosis.
Does cholestasis harm the baby?
Elevated bile acid levels are associated with preterm birth, fetal distress, and in severe cases, stillbirth. Close monitoring and early delivery (typically by 36–37 weeks) reduces these risks.
Is ICP itching different from normal pregnancy itching?
ICP itching is characteristically intense, worse at night, located on the palms and soles, and has no visible rash. Normal pregnancy skin itching is milder, associated with stretching skin or a visible rash.
Will cholestasis come back in future pregnancies?
Yes — women who have had ICP have a 60–90% chance of recurrence in subsequent pregnancies.