The pregnancy itch you shouldn't ignore

Thinking it was just another normal pregnancy symptom, Christina DePino took to Facebook to complain about her itch; however, her friends were quick to tell her otherwise.

Luckily, after a visit to the doctor, DePino found out she had pregnancy Cholestasis, which, as she described "is basically harmless for me - except for the crazy itching - But could have caused a still born after 37 weeks!!”

Writing about her experience on Facebook, the new mum said: “If you're pregnant and you're itching REALLY bad, don't ignore it!!”

“Started having severe itching a few weeks ago, (it was keeping me up at night) thanks to a little Facebook complaining and the urging of Jennifer, Britney & Monica, I got the itch checked out and found out I had pregnancy Cholestasis.”

She finished her post with a big thank you to her friends for the swift advice.

“I was officially diagnosed last week and had to get her out this week! We are so blessed!

“Thanks guys for giving some amazing advice which may have just saved our precious girl's life! Yeah, we are SO BLESSED and in awe!!!”

What is obstetric cholestasis

Obstetric cholestasis is a rare complication that occurs during the last trimester of pregnancy. A build-up of bile acids in the bloodstream causes a persistent itch.

The main symptom is a strong itch, which occurs mainly on the hands and feet. Other symptoms can include jaundice or dark urine and pale stools.

The Mayo Clinic website says: “Cholestasis of pregnancy poses no long-term risk to an expectant mother. For a developing baby, however, cholestasis of pregnancy can be dangerous. Doctors usually recommend early delivery.”

If you have any concerns about the information presented in this article and your health ask your doctor.