What causes cholestasis of pregnancy?

What causes cholestasis of pregnancy?

Bile is a substance made by the liver. It helps break down fats during digestion. In some people, when levels of hormones such as estrogen increase during pregnancy, the flow of bile in the liver stops or slows down. This slowdown can cause bile to build up in the liver and enter the bloodstream.

Cholestasis of pregnancy typically develops in the third trimester when pregnancy hormone levels are at their highest. In some cases, it is genetic, meaning it is passed down among family members.