What should you know about ICP itching during pregnancy?

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, or ICP, is a liver-related pregnancy condition associated with itching. It often causes intense itching without an obvious rash and may be stronger at night, on the hands, or on the feet. Other explanations include dry skin, eczema, contact dermatitis, hives, scabies, or a yeast infection. The symptom pattern cannot confirm the cause, so an obstetric team may arrange blood tests and repeat assessment if itching continues.

Tell your maternity team when the itching began, where it is worst, whether a rash is present, and whether sleep is affected. Mention dark urine, pale stools, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or pain under the right ribs. Keep nails short, use fragrance-free moisturiser, choose loose cotton clothing, and use lukewarm rather than hot water. Do not start herbal products or medicines without checking pregnancy safety with your clinician.

Contact your maternity unit promptly for new unexplained itching, particularly on palms or soles or without a rash. Seek urgent help for yellow skin or eyes, severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or any concern about reduced fetal movement; follow your local maternity service instructions for immediate assessment.

Ask whether your symptoms warrant liver and bile-acid testing, when results should be repeated, how fetal monitoring will be handled, and which treatments are suitable during pregnancy.