OBSTETRIC CHOLESTASIS

Obstetric Cholestasis is a condition of the liver, which occurs in some pregnant women at any time from pregnancy up to the delivery. Cholestasis results in a reduced flow of bile down the bile ducts into the liver. Bile then leaks into the bloodstream and circulates there. This causes an itching sensation in the hands and feet of the pregnant individual, which generally resolves after the birth. However, by this time there may have been damage to the unborn baby. If this condition is left untreated there is an increased risk for the baby of stillbirth, premature labour, foetal distress and bleeding. For the mother there are further increased risks including risk of serious bleeding from the womb after giving birth, risk of urinary tract infections and the risk of postpartum haemorrhage.

Obstetric Cholestasis occurs in approximately 1 in 1000 pregnancies in the UK. The reason why cholestasis occurs is not clear although research indicates that hormonal and genetic factors are the main causes. Pregnancy increases the hormones oestrogen and progesterone in the females’ body. These hormones are known to slow down the rate in which bile flows through the bile duct. It has also been linked to genetic factors and may run in some families (although may skip generations). The condition is also more common in mothers carrying twins, triplets or more.

How may a compensation claim arise?

Any pregnant mother who feels an itchy sensation should seek medical assistance. The itch may be all over the body but is mainly seen to affect the hands and feet. Other symptoms that may also arise include tiredness, loss of appetite, sickness, and jaundice. Any medical professional presented with these symptoms should be able to spot the warning signs for obstetric cholestasis. A blood sample should be obtained to test the liver function and timely treatment should be provided to reduce the risks associated with the condition.

Treatment of this condition includes administering ursodeoxycholic acid to improve the function of the liver. If the mother has been identified as at risk from this condition then increased antenatal checks should be undertaken to monitor the progress of the baby. Early delivery of the baby is sometimes advised since the risk of stillbirth increases sharply after 36-37 weeks. Extra vitamin K may be administered and a steroid dexamethasone may also be given to the mother. If procedures are not followed or the disease not picked up on presentation of the warning symptoms a compensation claim may be possible.

I think I have a claim. Where do I go from here?

Obstetric cholestasis is an extremely complex area and it is essential that you speak to a specialist solicitor as soon as possible. Ashton Lake Solicitors are specialists in bringing medical negligence claims of this nature. We are skilled in identifying from the medical records and from witness evidence what procedures were followed. We will detect and prove negligent action on the part of the medical professional where they have provided a sub standard level of care. Our aim is to get to the truth of how and why the negligent action occurred and to obtain the maximum compensation possible. We pride ourselves in high levels of client care and will always progress your claim with sensitivity at every stage of the process.

If you wish to make an enquiry then please complete the online enquiry form or call 01509 262621 to speak to a specialist medical negligence solicitor who will be available to discuss your case further. We offer a wide choice of funding arrangements including no win no fee.