.Objectives–

To compare the incidence of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy in progesterone supported post IVF conception versus natural conception.

Material and methods–

Retrospective study. Participants were divided into two groups. Group A– 100 consecutive women (80 singleton and 20 twins) who conceived by IVF–ET and received progesterone support. Group B– 650 consecutive women (631 singleton and 19 twins) conceived naturally with no hormonal support.

Results–

In group A of 100 IVF conceptions, 29% (29/100) were diagnosed to have IHCP. Group B hasonly 4% (30/650) had IHCP.Twin gestations showed higher incidence of IHCP in both groups; 55% vs 22.5% in IVF conceptions and 47% vs 3.3% in natural conceptions respectively.  Comparing the incidence of IHCP within twin conceptions of the 2 groups, it was higher in IVF conceptions (55% vs 47%)

Conclusion

Increased incidence of IHCP has been found in IVF conceived pregnancies in which progesterone support is given, suggesting that progesterone may have a role in the onset of IHCP.Twin gestation itself can be a predisposing factor for IHCP.