Causes Heartburn During Pregnancy and How Can It Be Reduced?
Heartburn, also called acid indigestion or acid reflux, is usually a burning sensation extending from the lower part of the breastbone to the lower throat. Many women suffer from heartburn for the first time during pregnancy and although they are common and generally harmless, they are quite uncomfortable.
Related problems such as flatulence and bloating during pregnancy usually start in the second or third trimester, but may be earlier for some women. Discomfort probably comes and goes until your baby is born, but in most cases heartburn is no longer a problem after birth.
Women who have gained too much weight during pregnancy can continue to have heartburn for a year after taking their baby.
Conditions Causing Heartburn During Pregnancy?
Some of the hormonal and physical changes in your body during pregnancy can cause stomach burns. For example, the placenta produces hormone progesterone, which relaxes the smooth muscles of the uterus. This hormone also relaxes the valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach and can cause gastric acid withdrawal and an unpleasant burning sensation in your throat.
Progesterone can slow down digestion by slowing the wavelet contractions of your esophagus and intestines. Later in pregnancy, your growing baby inflates your abdominal cavity and pushes gastric acid back into the esophagus.
How can I reduce heartburn during pregnancy?
Prevention is the best choice to reduce heartburn during pregnancy. Although you can't completely eliminate the situation, you can try some ways to prevent it and minimize discomfort;
- Avoid food and drinks that disturb your stomach. These include carbonated beverages, alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, citrus and fruit juices, tomatoes, mustard, vinegar, mint products, processed meats and foods that are oily, spicy, fried or highly seasoned.
- Eat small meals. Instead of three large meals, eat small to small throughout the day. Take time and chew thoroughly.
- Drink water between meals. It is important to drink plenty of water daily during pregnancy, but too much fluid can disturb your stomach. Moisten most of the water by drinking between meals.
- Chew gum after dinner. Chewing gum stimulates your salivary glands and can help neutralize saliva acids.
- Eat two or three hours before bedtime. This gives you time to digest your body before it reaches out.
- Raise up to about 6 inches with several pillows or a wedge in the upper body while you sleep. This helps lower stomach acid and helps digestion.
- Get dressed comfortably. Wear loose and casual clothes. Do not wear tight clothing around your waist and abdomen.
- Consult your doctor about heartburn medications. An antacid containing magnesium or calcium can alleviate the condition. Consult your doctor strictly before taking one because some brands are high in sodium or contain aluminum or aspirin. You can also talk to your doctor about prescription heartburn medications that are safe during pregnancy.
- In addition to contributing to serious health problems, smoking increases acidity in the stomach. If you have difficulty quitting, ask your doctor to apply for a smoking cessation program. Moreover, smoking during pregnancy can cause great harm to you and your baby's development.
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