Hormones that increase during pregnancy slow the digestive process, making indigestion and heartburn more frequent. Other hormones relax the valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach, explains WomensHealth.gov. When this valve relaxes spontaneously, the stomach contents are allowed to flow back up the esophagus causing heartburn. The weight and size of the baby can put pressure on the abdomen, forcing foods back up the esophagus as well.
Meal Schedule
Because pregnancy hormones and the weight of the baby are inevitable, a pregnant woman must avoid all other heartburn triggers. WomensHealth.gov recommends that a pregnant woman adjust her meal schedule. Eating six to eight small meals throughout the day will be easier to digest than eating three large meals. These meals should also be eaten slowly. Women should stay upright for a few hours after a meal and avoid bending over. It is likewise advisable not to eat too close to bedtime.
Avoid Edible Triggers
Mild heartburn may be constant during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. Eating trigger foods can increase the pain and frequency of the refluxing acid. Greasy, fried, fatty and spicy foods are known to trigger heartburn. Other edible triggers to avoid include caffeine, alcohol, carbonated beverages and citrus fruits or juices.
Sleep Position
Many women find sleeping at an incline or even sitting up to be soothing when heartburn can't be cured by preventative or medication methods. The use of gravity in this manner can often keep the stomach contents from making their way all the way up the esophagus.
Home Remedies
A small glass of low-fat or non-fat milk can soothe heartburn. Full-fat milks can exacerbate the issue. Reduced-fat yogurt can have the same acid-neutralizing effect. The American Pregnancy Association recommends a tablespoon of honey in a glass of warm milk when heartburn begins.
Medications
Pregnant women should only take over-the-counter heartburn medications under the advice of a medical professional. There are several safe options that can be used for short-term relief. When heartburn is more persistent or severe a prescription strength drug may be given. American Family Physician lists the safest antacids to be made of aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide. Calcium carbonate is generally thought to be safe, but it is still a category C risk, meaning animal fetus studies have revealed some harm but the same effects have not been recreated in humans. These type of antacids come in both chewable tablet form and liquid.
