How To Deal With Heartburn During Pregnancy
Nearly 50 percent of pregnant women complain about heartburn. Severe heartburn might occur during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Heartburn is a common symptom of the hormonal and physical changes that occurs in the body of a pregnant woman during this time. Despite the discomfort caused by heartburn, it is not harmful for the developing fetus.
Causes of heartburn during pregnancy
Heartburn is common during pregnancy. Heartburn develops when the valve connecting the esophagus and stomach relaxes, and the stomach acid enters the esophagus, throat and mouth. During pregnancy, the progesterone level increases. Excess progesterone tends to relax the valve located at the mouth of the stomach, causing acid reflux and heartburn. During the last phase of pregnancy, the growing uterus exerts pressure on the stomach, forcing the stomach acid into the esophagus, producing heartburn.
Treatment of heartburn during pregnancy
Since natural factors are associated with heartburn during pregnancy, nothing much could be done to prevent this condition. Through diet and lifestyle modification, you could try to reduce heartburn during this time.
Eat small meals
To reduce heartburn, pregnant women should divide the large meals into six small meals. Frequent eating could lessen hunger pangs and reduce heartburn. There should be two to three hours break between the meals. Do not lie down after finishing a meal. Have your dinner at least two hours before going to bed. Always have your meals in a relaxed environment. Stress would aggravate indigestion and heartburn. Digestion usually begins from the mouth as soon as you start chewing your food. You should chew your food slowly and properly, allowing the saliva to mix with the food ingredients. Avoid drinking water during meals or immediately after a meal.
Foods to avoid
Avoid eating excess spicy and fatty foods. Stay away from carbonated drinks, caffeine and alcohol. Tomato and tomato products might cause heartburn. Avoid ketchups and tomato sauces if having them increase heartburn.
Medication
Most over-the-counter heartburn relief medications are safe during pregnancy. You can try a chewable antacid for treating your heartburn. While antacids containing calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide or magnesium oxide are safe for pregnant women, they should avoid antacids with aluminum, aspirin and sodium.
