OBSTETRIC CHOLESTASIS MEDICAL NEGLIGENCE
Obstetric cholestasis otherwise known as 'intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy' (ICP) affects a very small percentage of pregnant women and is a disorder of the liver that can cause pain and fatigue accompanied by extreme itchiness to certain parts of the body with an associated risk of injury to the unborn child. If the mother is left untreated there is a grave risk of stillbirth which may be prevented by an early delivery. Failure to diagnose and treat obstetric cholestasis which causes injury to the child or the mother may be grounds for a medical negligence compensation claim.
COMPENSATION HELPLINE 0845 177 0929
Liver Function Tests Essential
Many doctors and nurses may not be aware that obstetric cholestasis is present because minor itching can be normal during pregnancy. If there is any sign of unwarranted itchiness there is a necessity for the healthcare practitioner to arrange blood tests to establish the condition of the liver. Failure to order liver function tests may in itself be evidence of medical negligence particularly if the mother has made vociferous complaint of being itchy.
COMPENSATION HELPLINE 0845 177 0929
Jaundice & Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy
Mild jaundice which has distinct symptoms may also accompany intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy meaning that a more obvious signal is present. The main symptoms of obstetric cholestasis are extreme itching of the head, face and feet, physical fatigue through loss of sleep, vomiting and occasional mild jaundice. Many of these factors are also associated with a normal pregnancy which is why obstetric cholestasis is often missed.
COMPENSATION HELPLINE 0845 177 0929
The Limitation Act 1980 - Time Limits
If you have been the victim of medical negligence by a healthcare provider you may be able to make a claim for compensation. Time limits apply and it is in your interests to obtain legal advice about intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy at an early stage. Failure to abide by the Limitation Act 1980 may mean that the opportunity to claim compensation is lost forever. Don't delay - take legal advice now on ICP.