Heartburn is also referred to as acid reflux or acid indigestion. It provides an uncomfortable and burning sensation which can extend from your breastbone to the lower portion of your throat. A number of women are known to experience this when they are expecting a baby. It is true that this is not harmful, but it can cause a great amount of discomfort.
Causes of Heartburn in Pregnancy
Bloating and heartburn normally starts showing up towards the second and the third trimesters. However, many expectant mothers can also face it before that. This discomfort keeps coming and going back before the birth of the baby.
During pregnancy, the body not only goes through hormonal changes but also through the physical changes, which cause heartburns. The placenta is known to produce progesterone, which plays an important role in relaxing the uterus muscles. This hormone can also provide relaxation to the valve which separates the stomach and the esophagus. This causes the gastric acid to keep seeping back and is responsible for the burning sensation.
The problem of acid reflux or heartburn normally disappears after the birth of the baby. However, if you have put on too much weight, you can go through this discomfort for almost a year.
Symptoms of Heartburn
The normal symptom of heartburn in early pregnancy is that you might not feel like eating. You can also feel pukish throughout the entire day.
The sphincter present on the esophagus is responsible for sending the stomach acids into the esophagus and can cause the acid reflux. It is rare, but gallstones are also responsible for heartburn or acid reflux.
Prevention of Heartburn During Pregnancy
You can prevent the heartburn during pregnancy, though it cannot be avoided completely. Here are some of the ways in which the acid reflux can be reduced.
● Do not consume foods that can cause stomach upset: When you are expecting a baby, remember that you are not only eating for yourself but also for the little one. You should keep a check on what you are consuming. Alcohol, citrus fruits, chocolates, carbonated drinks, mustard, processed meats, caffeine, vinegar, and mint products should not be taken. Also avoid spicy, highly seasoned and fatty foods.
● Eat tiny portions: Instead of eating three meals that are large, opt for small portions and eat the entire day. When you are eating, ensure that you are not in a hurry, and you are chewing the food properly.
● Chew Gum: Chewing gum after your meal’s complete helps in stimulating the salivary glands. Saliva assists in neutralizing the acid.
Pregnancy is the time when you can go through a number of complications and problems. However, it’s something that everyone faces and there is nothing to worry.
Recent Comments