Heartburn, also referred to as acid reflux, is a common side effect of pregnancy. Some heartburn sufferers have experienced the pain of acid reflux before, while many other women experience heartburn symptoms for the first time while they are pregnant.
Identification
Heartburn feels like a burning sensation in the middle of the chest and can come and go over the course of the pregnancy. It frequently strikes just after a meal, but can come on suddenly at any time.
Causes
When the acidic contents of the stomach move up into the esophagus, heartburn is the painful result. During pregnancy, a woman's body produces the hormone progesterone, which relaxes the esophageal sphincter. This valve between the esophagus and stomach normally prevents stomach acid from backtracking up into the esophagus. Progesterone also slows digestion, causing stomach contents to stay there longer, making acid reflux more likely. In addition, the uterus pushes up on the stomach as it expands during the second and third trimesters, pushing the stomach contents up past the relaxed esophageal sphincter to cause acid reflux.
Prevention
One key to preventing heartburn during pregnancy is to avoid trigger foods. These can be different for different people, but often include spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine and fatty foods. Eating smaller meals and avoiding drinking a lot with meals can also help. Remaining upright for at least an hour after eating instead of lying down right away is another method of prevention and it is a good idea for frequent heartburn sufferers to elevate the head during sleep.
Treatment
Over-the-counter antacids are commonly used to treat heartburn, but you should consult your doctor before taking them. Some natural remedies suggested by the American Pregnancy Association include drinking milk with a tablespoon of honey mixed in and eating yogurt. For severe acid reflux during pregnancy, your doctor might recommend a prescription medication.
Warnings
Frequent heartburn during pregnancy is fairly common and harmless. However, there are some circumstances when you should contact your doctor. Signs that acid reflux might be a symptom of a bigger problem include difficulty swallowing, heartburn that won't go away or returns immediately after treating it, severe acid reflux that wakes you from sleep, spitting up blood, weight loss during pregnancy and black colored bowel movements.
