Heartburn During Pregnancy

Heartburn is very common during pregnancy. Although it is more common during late pregnancy, some women recognize heartburn as one of the earliest signs of pregnancy. If you are pregnant and suffering from this uncomfortable problem, you might be wondering what is causing it and how to control it. Here are some of the things that all women should know about heartburn during pregnancy.

Why is Heartburn More Common During Pregnancy?

There are a few reasons why heartburn is more common during pregnancy, but it is the result of the hormone called progesterone. Progesterone causes the valve which is located between the stomach and food pipe to relax, which allows for gastric acid to enter the esophagus and irritate the lining, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Digestion is also slowed down by progesterone, which is another potential cause of heartburn.

According to the American Pregnancy Association, heartburn is most common during the third trimester because there is more pressure on the stomach and intestines, which can cause contents to be pushed back up into the esophagus. That said, plenty of women experience heartburn during the second trimester of pregnancy. Some even suffer from the problem during the first trimester, as they are beginning to notice pregnancy symptoms.

How Can You Treat Heartburn During Pregnancy?

If you are suffering from heartburn during pregnancy, you might be wondering what you can do about the problem. Before taking any over-the-counter antacids, it is important to always check with your doctor first to make sure that they are safe. The American Pregnancy Association recommends eating yogurt, drinking money, or a tablespoon of honey in a glass of warm milk to naturally treat heartburn.

It is ideal to focus on heartburn prevention during pregnancy. This can be a much easier alternative to trying to treat the problem once it has already occurred. Avoid foods which may trigger heartburn, such as acidic foods (e.g. tomatoes, citric fruits), caffeinated foods and beverages, spicy foods, and greasy or fattening foods. Also keep in mind that it is ideal to eat small meals throughout the day. Avoid eating too soon before bed and elevate your body during sleep to prevent acid reflux from occurring.

Heartburn can be a very uncomfortable problem during pregnancy, but the good news is that it is perfectly normal. For most women, it will subside immediately after birth. If you experience severe heartburn and want to try over-the-counter treatments, remember that it is important to always get your doctor's approval beforehand.

Sources:

American Pregnancy Association, "Pregnancy and Heartburn."

BabyCenter.com, "Heartburn during pregnancy."