Obstetric Cholestasis Experiences/Advice/Support Please

[Isean]

I'm hoping some of you might be able to share your experiences and offer some advice and support about OC and severe itching.

I'm 30+1 and following raised ALT levels in LFTs on Friday and Sunday, along with intense itching, particularly on my hands and feet, dark urine and pale stools, it's looking like I have OC. I had bloods taken to test bile acid levels, but it will take up to two weeks to get those results.
I have been prescribed urso 250mg three times a day and 1 x 4mg piriton to take before bed. I have to go back to the hospital for bloods and trace tomorrow and then twice a week for the remainder of the pregnancy. I also have to get a liver and gallbladder scan.

The itching is driving me crazy, particularly during the night. I have been applying Dermacool and trying to stay cool, as when I warm up the itching is severe.

I've been googling and it's making me anxious as I keep reading about pre-term labour, foetal distress, having to be induced early, etc.

Can anyone offer me any tips to deal with the itch and share their experiences please? TIA!

Hi. Didn't want to read and run. I am 38 weeks with my 2nd OC pregnancy. I was diagnosed at 32 weeks with my DD and 30 weeks this time, also on Urso (500mg twice daily) and piriton. Urso is a great help in reducing the itching and managing the condition & reducing risk. But if does take a little while to kick in. The itching is better if you stick to natural fabrics and keep cool too. The best source if info U have found for OC - now officially called Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy or ICP - is www.icpsupport.org (there is also a Facebook support group). Hope this helps and sounds like you are getting the right treatment. Good luck x