Heartburn During Pregnancy - The Facts

No one likes heartburn, and particularly not during a pregnancy.  If you are wondering if you are pregnant, you should be aware that pregnancy symptoms and heartburn are not uncommon, so it's probably time to take the EPT test! The bottom line is that indigestion in early pregnancy is normal.

Heartburn causes pain and sharpness for just a short while.  Unfortunately it can also be accompanied by a particularly acidic bile coming back up the the throat, so it is an unpleasant experience. 

Hopefully you will only experience heartburn during pregnancy and not suffer from frequent heartburn as many people do.

Heartburn begins at the bottom of the breastbone and go all the way till it reaches the lower throat and is believed to be caused by some changes to the hormonal as well physical conditions in the body.

So unfortunately pregnancy and acid and stomach pain all go together.  Heartburn during pregnancy may often result in the placenta producing hormone progesterone that relaxes the smooth muscles of the uterus.

When this hormone also relaxes the valve that separates the stomach from the esophagus it allows gastric acids to trickle back up and, thus results in an unpleasant burning sensation.

In addition, progesterone will slow down the wavelike contractions of the woman’s esophagus as well as intestines and thus considerably slow down digestion.

Your Baby May Causing Heartburn During Pregnancy

Heartburn during pregnancy occurs when the growing baby crowds the pregnant woman’s abdominal cavity and thus pushes the stomach acids back up into the esophagus. It is normal for most pregnant women to complain of heartburn during pregnancy and indigestion during the end of pregnancy.  

It's normal for it to occurr off and on until your baby is born. If it does become pronounced be sure to ask your doctor for advice on what acid reflux medications are safe for pregnancy.

Stay Away From Acidic Food 

It may not be possible for one to totally eliminate heartburn during pregnancy but one can take steps to minimize the discomfort.

Keep in mind that heartburn is acidic, so it's wise to understand heartburn food and neutralize it where possible.  For example, chewing can stimulate the salivary glands and the resulting saliva works great in counteracting the acid.  So pick up a pack of gum and take some before a meal.

These include:

• Mustard
• Vinegar
• Citrus fruits
• Spicy foods
• Juices

And it's also a good idea to limit your intake of caffeine foods and drinks such as:

• Coffee
• Sodas
• Chocolate (although I have to say that I can't give this one up!)

Pregnant women should refrain from eating big meals and, should, instead, eat a few small meals throughout the day and, eat at a slow and steady pace and, also chew thoroughly.

Pregnant women need to refrain from smoking and, should also avoid alcohol intake and, do some exercises such as bending at the knees instead of at the waist and, also wear loose, comforting clothing and, not wear anything that is excessively tight around the waist and tummy.

One final tip is to try and be elevated in bed at night.  A few well positioned pillows will keep your upper body raise so that the acids in your stomach stay where they belong.