subject: The Association Of Heartburn And Pregnancy [print this page] One of the most wonderful times in a women's life is when she discovers she's pregnant. With that joy comes the realization that there's going to hard times too. With things such as being constantly tired, having what equals to a watermelon inside you, swollen ankles, and developing heartburn, there are days where being pregnant is no fun time. Knowing that whatever you eat will result in stomach acid going up the esophagus all the way up to the throat. It's a dreaded feeling.
Hormonal and physical changes to the body is the reason for the connection between heartburn and pregnancy. The muscle that separates the stomach and the esophagus doesn't seal properly because of a hormone called progesterone which increases during pregnancy and as a result any food you've eaten combined with acid from the stomach will go back into the esophagus and cause problems. Progesterone is also guilty of slowing down movement of what you eat through the digestive tract which is as a result causes heartburn.
Another incident involving heartburn and pregnancy is the baby itself. It a living. breathing human being that grows in the womb and pushes the stomach into the esophagus. As a result, the things you've eaten and acid in the stomach will go up into the esophagus and maybe even the throat.
Heartburn during pregnancy cannot be avoided completely and your only consolation is that it will disappear once you get your baby in your hands. But, there are a few ways to diminish the acid reflux and consequent heartburn.
Try to avoid foods that are common triggers of heartburn, whether you are pregnant or not. Such as foods that are spicy, greasy, deep fried, acidic and sweet.
Avoid coffee and caffeinated drinks and limit your consumption of chocolate to occasional small treats.
Do not smoke or drink while pregnant as it, not only causes heartburn, but can adverse effects on the baby.
Regardless of how much you like it, pizza is one of the dishes you should try to stay away from, it is both greasy and it has tomato paste, which is very acidic.
Eat several small meals instead of three large ones.
Drink water slowly because it will reduce the chances of you becoming bloated and putting pressure on the esophagus. Sip it slowly during the entire day.
Wait 2-3 hours after eating before going to bed and elevate your torso on a few pillows if heartburn is bothering you.
If you do get heartburn, try chewing gum. Increased saliva production caused by the gum will aid in digestion and bring an end to heartburn.
Light exercise like walking is great for many reasons, not only for improving your digestion and decreasing chances of heartburn attack. It will tone your muscles and maintain your weight. You need that strength to carry a growing baby.
There are some heartburn medicine your OB-GYN doctor might suggest that you take. Try to avoid these and look instead for alternative remedies that are safe for you and the baby. Just be careful because your decision affects the baby.
When it comes to heartburn and pregnancy the idea is to be as comfortable as possible so you can get ready for the joyous event.
