Pregnancy is an exciting and happy moment for many women, but it’s also a time when some women experience discomfort and health issues.

Heartburn and Indigestion are some common problems that pregnant women go through on their journey to becoming mothers. The good news is that there are several ways to manage these conditions and enjoy a healthy and comfortable pregnancy.

In this article, we will discuss what causes heartburn and indigestion during pregnancy, preventative measures, and treatment options.

What Causes Heartburn and Indigestion during Pregnancy?

Heartburn and indigestion are the primary complaints of pregnant women. These discomforts occur because as your baby grows, the uterus applies pressure on your digestive organs.

This increased pressure relaxes the sphincter between the stomach and the esophagus, leading to stomach acid leaking up into the esophagus.

In addition to the pressure that the uterus applies, the hormones progesterone and relaxin also play a role in causing heartburn and indigestion in pregnancy. Progesterone relaxes the muscles in the digestive system and may slow down digestion.

While relaxin softens the ligaments and joints in preparation for childbirth, it also relaxes the stomach muscles, which may cause food to back up into the esophagus and lead to heartburn.

Preventative Measures for Heartburn and Indigestion

Prevention is the first defense against any discomforts during pregnancy. Here are some preventative measures you can take to avoid heartburn and indigestion:.

Eat Small, Frequent Meals

Eating small, frequent meals instead of three large ones can help prevent heartburn. Eating five to six small meals throughout the day also helps maintain blood sugar levels and prevents nausea.

Avoid Trigger Foods

Some foods such as spicy, fried, or acidic foods can trigger heartburn and indigestion. It’s best to avoid these foods or include them in small portions and chew them slowly and thoroughly.

Stay Upright after Eating

Lying down immediately after eating increases the risk of heartburn. Instead, wait for a few hours before laying down. If you must lie down, elevate your head and chest above your stomach to prevent stomach acids from flowing into the esophagus.

Avoid Tight-Fitting Clothing

Tight-fitting clothes such as waistbands and maternity pants can constrict the stomach and trigger heartburn. Choose loose-fitting clothing and avoid tight belts, waistbands, and other constricting items of clothing.

Treatment Options for Heartburn and Indigestion

If you experience heartburn and indigestion despite taking preventative measures, there are several treatments available. Here are some treatment options:.

Antacids

Antacids are over-the-counter medications that neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn. However, you should consult with your doctor before taking any medications to ensure they are safe for you and your baby.

H2 Blockers

H2 blockers reduce the production of stomach acid and provide longer-lasting relief from heartburn. Again, always consult your doctor before taking any medication, including H2 blockers.

Proton Pump Inhibitors

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) are stronger medications that reduce stomach acid production by blocking the enzyme that produces stomach acid. However, you should not take PPIs in the first trimester of pregnancy without consulting your doctor first.

Change in Diet

Changing your diet can also help reduce heartburn and indigestion. Avoiding trigger foods that exacerbate symptoms and incorporating foods that reduce acid reflux can significantly help alleviate the discomforts.

Some foods that can help reduce acid reflux include oatmeal, bananas, melons, green vegetables, and almonds.

Home Remedies

Several home remedies can be useful in managing heartburn and indigestion. Drinking a glass of milk, chewing gum, drinking ginger tea, and eating almonds are some popular remedies for heartburn.

In contrast, drinking chamomile tea, consuming apple cider vinegar, and papaya enzymes are some well-known remedies for indigestion.

Conclusion

Heartburn and indigestion are common discomforts of pregnancy. The good news is that prevention is possible through diet and lifestyle changes. When the symptoms persist despite these changes, several treatments are available to relieve symptoms.

As always, it’s essential to consult with your doctor to determine the best course of treatment for you and your baby. These tips will ensure that you enjoy a comfortable pregnancy and a healthy baby.