Dealing with Heartburn During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a joyous time, yet one of many bodily changes. Some changes are pleasant -- like glowing skin and thick, shiny hair. Others, like heartburn, are not so pleasant! Heartburn during pregnancy is a common occurrence that usually affects women during their second trimester. If you experience a burning sensation in your chest that may or may not include belching and a sour taste in the back of your mouth, you probably have heartburn.

When you're pregnant, your body makes progesterone. Progesterone is a hormone that relaxes not only the muscles of the uterus, but of the esophagus as well. This makes it possible for stomach acid to travel upwards into the esophagus. This is called acid reflux, and is the cause of the uncomfortable burning sensation in the chest.

If you are experiencing uncomfortable acid reflux during pregnancy, mention it to your doctor during your next checkup. While there may not be any way to eliminate it completely, there are ways to lessen the occurrences and severity of acid reflux and heartburn. Your doctor might recommend that you try an over the counter antacid like Tums, Rolaids, Mylanta or Maalox. Antacids work to neutralize stomach acid and decrease discomfort, and some of them even feature extra calcium.

Changing your diet may also help alleviate the problem. Avoid spicy foods, fried foods, onions, peppers, chocolate, tomatoes, citrus fruits, vinegar, and mint. It may take a bit of experimentation to find out which foods aggravate the problem and which ones don't. Eating small meals more frequently as opposed to eating three large meals can be helpful also. In addition, stopping food intake within two to three hours before bedtime may also be a good idea. There are some lifestyle changes that can help, too. Using a few extra pillows to prop yourself up can provide relief. Also, wear loose clothing and when you bend over, do so at the knees.

If you find that heartburn during pregnancy is very chronic or severe, definitely make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. While pregnancy could be the culprit, there might be other causes as well. Some people find that they suffer from GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. GERD is a lifelong condition that must be diagnosed and treated by your physician.

Copyright 2006 Jim Sterling - All Rights Reserved

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