The time period from the beginning of pregnancy to delivering a baby is a crucial moment in a women’s life. She carries boundless emotions and feelings within her during this phase. But at the same time, women face many health problems too.
Indigestion and heartburn are two of the most common issue that occurs in pregnancy. Sometimes, it begins in the first trimester of pregnancy and lasts in all the trimester. Almost every pregnant women have to go through heartburn at some point.
The actual answer can’t be found because acidity during pregnancy can happen at any time. If you are thinking that’s it’s related to your heart, then you may be completely wrong. We have put down some facts here to break your myth.
What are some common heartburn causes in pregnancy?
Heartburn is a burning sensation, which is produced by the foods that return from your stomach and hit the esophagus. Burning can be felt on your throat, sternum, or middle portion of the chest. If the condition doesn’t go away after several hours and occurs again, you might be suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Occasional heartburns are fine because it’s normal during pregnancy but when the same thing keeps occurring 3-5 times a week, consult a doctor. The condition keeps worsening with the growing uterus as it will add extra pressure to the stomach.
Generally, a woman’s body starts to release progesterone and relaxin hormone during pregnancy that brings smooth lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscles in the relaxing position. This is one of the primary heartburn causes.
Besides, her indigestion capability also reduces at some rate so that a sufficient amount of nutrients could reach the baby. As a result, the food in the stomach stays for too long and indigestion happens.
Spicy, greasy foods and some medicines can make it worse. Tomatoes, citrus foods, garlic, onion, chocolate, coffee, alcohol, fatty, and oily foods are not good for pregnant women. They can increase stomach acid along with causing heartburn.
Heartburn is also the result of stress and lack of sleep. Both can elevate heartburn symptoms so get adequate sleep.
What is some possible acid reflux treatment?
In other words, heartburn is also referred to as pyrosis, cardialgia, acid indigestion, or acid reflux. The doctors mostly recommend the consumption of over-the-counter medicine like an antacid. It works by neutralizing stomach acid.
In severe cases of GERD, H2 receptor blockers or PPI are suggested. Moreover, Gaviscon is an effective remedy for indigestion and heartburn. It has a long-lasting effect on your stomach. Keep acidity during pregnancy away with the Gaviscon oral suspension or chewable tablets. All these acid reflux treatment are safe for women.
BOTTOM LINE
Strictly avoid foods that can increase stomach acid. With some lifestyle changes, women can easily cope up with heartburn issues. And make sure to not take a full meal at a time. Consume light meals but more frequently for maintaining good health. It would be good for you and your baby too.
