Liver tests in pregnancy

Both at the stage of pregnancy planning and during pregnancy, a woman regularly undergoes a series of laboratory tests to assess the general condition of the body and promptly identify any pathological changes.

Liver function tests during pregnancy consist of many different indicators, but special attention is paid to ALT and AST. Changes in the values of these enzymes indicate not only liver damage, but also detoxification of the mother and fetus.

• AST in the first trimester – up to 31 U/l. In the second and third trimester – 30 U/l.
• ALT in the first trimester – up to 32 U/l. In the second and third trimester – up to 30 U/l.

These indicators are average and may vary depending on the equipment of the diagnostic department, i.e. the laboratory. If enzymes during pregnancy exceed the normal values, then, as a rule, this is not a cause for concern. During embroidery, transient jumps are allowed due to hormonal changes in the body and the influence of the fetus on the woman's liver.

If elevated liver tests are accompanied by painful symptoms, then a comprehensive liver screening diagnostics is performed. An increase in the level of transaminases indicates cytolysis, that is, the death of organ cells. This condition is typical for the following diseases:

• Viral infection.
• Inflammation of the gallbladder.
• Autoimmune hepatitis.
• Cirrhosis.
• Drug-induced hepatitis.
• Fatty liver disease.
• Yellow atrophy of the liver in the first trimester.
• Preeclampsia (late toxicosis).

The above conditions require additional diagnostics and medical correction. The most gentle methods are used for treatment so as not to harm the mother's body and the future child.

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Preparation

In order for the liver function test to be as reliable as possible, it is necessary to properly prepare for it. A week before the test, you should stop taking medications and switch to a diet. Blood is taken on an empty stomach, the last meal should be 8-12 hours before the screening.

Normal liver function tests during pregnancy

Indicator	1st trimester	2nd trimester	III trimester
Bilirubin µmol/l:
General	3.4-21.6	3.4-21.6	3.4-21.6
Direct	0-7.9	0-7.9	0-7.9
Indirect	3.4-13.7	3.4-13.7	3.4-13.7
ALT, U/L	Up to 32	Up to 31	Up to 31
AST, U/l	Up to 31	Up to 30	Up to 30
GGT, U/L	Up to 36	Up to 36	Up to 36
Alkaline phosphatase, U/L	40-150	40-190	40-240

Let's take a closer look at the main indicators of liver condition during pregnancy:

1. Bilirubin - during pregnancy, an increase in indirect bilirubin is possible with normal values of ALT, AST, GGT and a number of other indicators. This condition is called Gilbert's syndrome and refers to congenital pathologies that persist throughout life, but do not pose a danger to the mother and child.
2. ALT – an increase in this enzyme is possible with late gestosis during pregnancy.
3. AST – minor fluctuations are possible in the first and second trimester. If high levels persist throughout pregnancy, this indicates problems with the liver.
4. GGT – increases in the second trimester, as well as in diseases of the liver and biliary system, diabetes mellitus.
5. Alkaline phosphatase - an increase occurs in the second and third trimester due to the active growth of fetal bone tissue. Also, a violation of the ALP level may indicate diseases of the mother's skeletal system, liver cholestasis, hepatitis.

Elevated liver function tests during pregnancy

During pregnancy, the female body undergoes hormonal changes. This has a negative effect on the condition of the internal organs, which experience increased stress. Particular attention is paid to the condition of the liver. To assess the functional capabilities of the organ, the woman gives venous blood for analysis. The biological fluid is examined for liver tests: ALT, AST, GGT, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase.

Many women have liver function tests that are above normal. In most cases, transient surges are caused by hormonal changes and do not pose a threat to the expectant mother or fetus.