Possible Side Effects—The Relationship Between Heartburn And Pregnancy
One of the most common side effects of pregnancy is heartburn. A painful, burning feeling in the throat or chest, heartburn during pregnancy is extremely uncomfortable. It is best to avoid having heartburn while being pregnant if possible.
Fortunately, there are several measures you can take to reduce or eliminate heartburn while you’re pregnant, and you can do so without hurting your baby. Being pregnant is stressful enough—you don’t need to suffer from heartburn as well.
Why Do Heartburn And Pregnancy Go Together?
It is quite common for pregnant women to suffer from heartburn—but why? One of the main reasons that women experience heartburn during pregnancy is due to the change in hormones that occurs during this time. During pregnancy, the body produces more hormones. These hormones, more specifically a hormone called progesterone, are often responsible for the relaxation of the valve that stops stomach acid from regurgitating into the esophagus.
Another cause promoting the simultaneous occurrence of heartburn and pregnancy is the growing uterus. Particularly during the third trimester of pregnancy, the uterus becomes enlarged to the point that it begins putting pressure on the abdomen. This often forces stomach acids upward.
Relieving Heartburn And Enjoying Pregnancy
It can be very uncomfortable to experience heartburn, and pregnancy itself is no picnic. For those women who do not wish to experience heartburn and pregnancy at the same time, there are a few things that can be done to reduce or eliminate heartburn.
One thing that can be done is to eat several small meals during the day instead of three large ones. This is typically effective because it prevents overeating, one of the major causes of heartburn, to occur at any one meal. However, this method also ensures that the baby is still getting the nutrients it needs.
Other tips that can help to reduce heartburn during pregnancy include: avoiding fatty and spicy foods, avoiding lots of fluids, chewing gum, avoiding carbonated and caffeinated beverages, avoiding tomato products, and staying away from tight-fitting clothes.
Pregnant women can also safely take most antacid tablets; it is important to check with your healthcare provider before you begin taking any sort of medication.
If you have been unable to stop your heartburn using one of these methods, then it may be time to consult your doctor. He or she will be able to tell you if it safe for you to take stronger medication while being pregnant, and will be able to write a prescription for it if it is safe.
Riding Out Heartburn And Pregnancy
One thing that heartburn and pregnancy have in common is that you have to put up with both for a period of time, but eventually both will come to an end. The result will be a beautiful new baby—and a pain free life!