Many pregnant women suffer from heartburn at some point during their pregnancy. During pregnancy, the placenta produces the hormone progesterone, which relaxes the smooth muscles of the uterus and the valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach, allowing gastric acids to seep back up, states Baby Center. The pressure of the growing uterus upwards on the stomach also contributes to the development of heartburn. There are several remedies for heartburn during pregnancy that women should be aware of.
Diet Modification
Dietary modification may help alleviate heartburn during pregnancy. Avoiding carbonated beverages, spicy or acidic foods, and caffeinated beverages may help reduce symptoms of heartburn. Eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day and remaining upright after eating for at least 30 minutes can help relieve heartburn. Avoid drinking large quantities of fluids during meals because it may distend the stomach. It's important to drink eight to ten glasses of water daily during pregnancy, but sip it between meals, states Baby Center.
Lifestyle Modification
Remaining in an upright position after eating and sleeping propped up on pillows can help reduce the amount of stomach acid seeping up into the esophagus. Chewing gum after eating may help neutralize stomach acid, leading to a reduction in heartburn. According to Baby Center, gaining a sensible amount of weight, and staying within the guidelines a healthcare provider suggests may help decrease heartburn. While bending, women should bend at the knees and not at their waist. Bending at the waist forces hydrochloric (stomach) acid up into the esophagus. Wearing clothes that fit loosely around the waist will help reduce placing additional pressure on the stomach.
Medication
If diet and lifestyle modification do not help relieve heartburn, a physician should be consulted for further instruction. They may recommend the use of an over the counter antacid, such as Tums or Mylanta to neutralize stomach acid and relieve heartburn. In severe cases, women may need a prescription drug during pregnancy to reduce heartburn. These drugs are only given under the supervision of a physician.
