What does high bile acids mean in pregnancy?

What does high bile acids mean in pregnancy?

Bile acid levels increases the risk of poor outcomes of pregnancies with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) Our researchers have looked at information from over 5,500 women with ICP and have found that the babies of women with extremely high bile acid levels are most at risk of stillbirth.

What is the normal level of bile acids in pregnancy?

Total serum bile acid levels are slightly higher in pregnant than in nonpregnant women (mean ± SD, 6.6 ± 0.3 μmol/L vs 5.7 ± 0.4 μmol/L),16 and levels up to 11.0 μmol/L are accepted as normal in late gestation.

What causes high bile levels in pregnancy?

Pregnancy hormones rise the closer you get to your due date. Doctors think this may slow the normal flow of bile — the digestive fluid made in the liver that helps your digestive system break down fats. Instead of leaving the liver, bile builds up in the organ.

How do you treat high bile acid during pregnancy?

Treatment

1. Taking a prescription drug called ursodiol (Actigall, Urso, Urso Forte), which helps to lower the level of bile in your blood. Other medications to relieve itching may also be an option.
2. Soaking itchy areas in cool or lukewarm water.

How do I lower my bile acids?

Lifestyle and home remedies

1. Stop smoking. Smoking increases the production of stomach acid and dries up saliva, which helps protect the esophagus.
2. Eat smaller meals.
3. Stay upright after eating.
4. Limit fatty foods.
5. Avoid problem foods and beverages.
6. Limit or avoid alcohol.
7. Lose excess weight.
8. Raise your bed.

Is vomiting bile during pregnancy normal?

Is yellow vomit normal during pregnancy? Yup, it certainly can be! Yellow vomit is just stomach acid. When you don’t have any food in your stomach but you’re still throwing up, it’s inevitable that you’ll start vomiting the only thing left in there: bile.

What foods increase bile acid?

Bitter foods are great at stimulating bile production. You can choose from all dark green leafy vegetables, as well as beetroot, artichokes and pickles. Drinks such as roasted dandelion root tea, lemon tea, celery juice and coffee all stimulate bile production.