Acid reflux occurs when the stomach contents make their way back up the esophagus, the pipe that connects the mouth with the stomach. Reflux occurs frequently in pregnancy. Some women notice it early in the pregnancy while others experience more when the baby and uterus put pressure on the stomach. There are methods of reducing or controlling reflux, but a woman may need over-the-counter or prescription medication to get relief. Acid reflux isn’t usually serious in pregnancy but it can be bothersome.
Function
Acid reflux in pregnancy occurs in the same manner as it does for any other individual. At the base of the esophagus is a flap that prevents the contents of the stomach from flowing upwards. When this flap opens when it shouldn’t, the contents of the stomach are allowed to go up the esophagus. Several factors in pregnancy make the flap prone to opening more frequently than normal.
Causes
Relaxin is a hormone that is created in the body during pregnancy. It is necessary in loosening the joints in the woman’s body to make labor possible. The hormone doesn’t discriminate, meaning it relaxes most muscles, ligaments and other similar tissues in the body. This includes the flap, called the lower esophageal sphincter, at the base of the esophagus.
Progesterone increases during pregnancy and slows digestion. When the stomach contents take longer to pass through, the result is an increase in reflux. The stomach can become overfull more quickly due to still processing previously consumed foods.
Later in pregnancy the uterus and baby can put pressure on the stomach and force foods through the lower esophageal sphincter and up the esophagus. This cause of acid reflux is more difficult to control.
Symptoms
The most characteristic symptom of acid reflux is heartburn, or a burning sensation in the chest when the acid makes its way up the esophagus. Other symptoms, as indicated by AskDrSears.com, include belching or a sour taste in the mouth when the stomach contents are regurgitated. Night reflux may lead to a woman waking with a sore throat and a dry cough.
Prevention
There are several things women can try that may reduce the likelihood of acid reflux. Five or six smaller meals throughout the day instead of three large meals can reduce the volume of food that goes into the stomach at one time. It is important that a woman stay upright for at least an hour after a meal. Many women report more frequent acid reflux while sleeping due to being horizontal and gravity allowing the stomach contents to flow freely upwards. There are several foods that trigger acid production in the stomach, suggests the American Pregnancy Association. These include spicy, greasy or fatty foods. Some women may learn of other triggers through experience, including citrus or garlic.
Treatment
Home remedies may or may not improve symptoms for all women. The American Pregnancy Association suggests drinking a glass of milk or eating yogurt when acid begins. A tablespoon of honey mixed with a warm glass of milk may also relieve the discomfort. It is important to use a non-fat or low-fat version of milk or yogurt because fat increases acid production in the stomach.
Over-the-counter and prescription acid reflux treatment should only be used under the advice of a medical professional. Many antacids contain high levels of sodium, which can lead to swelling in the body, states the American Pregnancy Association. When necessary, a health care professional may recommend magnesium or calcium-containing antacid, states BabyCenter.com.
