Heartburn refers to the burning sensation felt in the throat and chest when food and acid make their way back up the esophagus from the stomach. Heartburn is common during pregnancy. There are a number of reasons it occurs, and it can be a direct result of the pregnancy itself. Pregnancy hormones, weight gain, lack of space in the stomach and increased food sensitivity can all contribute to heartburn. Preventing heartburn during pregnancy can be done in the same manner it is outside of pregnancy. Over-the-counter and prescription antacids offer relief but may not be suitable during pregnancy. Instead of medications, try several different prevention techniques to avoid and cope with heartburn.
Step 1
Opt for loose or properly fitting clothes if your expanding waistline causes your clothes to fit too snugly. Putting extra pressure on the stomach can encourage acids to make their way back up, creating heartburn.
Step 2
Eat smaller meals. Digestion is slower than normal because of the hormones associated with pregnancy. Eating large meals will only delay the digestion further. The growing baby and other organs may already be compressing the stomach; adding too much food will only trigger the return of acid to the esophagus and up to the throat.
Step 3
Avoid foods that appear to trigger heartburn. This may be difficult to determine, as you may be experiencing a number of food issues, including morning sickness and nausea. Every person may react differently, but there are several foods commonly associated with heartburn. According to AmericanPregnancy.org these include: chocolate, products containing caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, overly rich foods and foods high in fat.
Step 4
Stay upright after eating a meal or snack. Eating before bed during pregnancy is not a good idea anyway, as it may keep your baby active while you are trying to sleep. If heartburn is worse during the night, prop yourself up while you sleep. Commercial pillows designed for pregnant women might make it easier to sleep upright.
Step 5
Discuss your heartburn with your doctor. Identify the things you have tried to do to decrease the acid. Antacids can be taken during pregnancy, and they come in liquids, chewable tablets and capsules. Some require a prescription, and some do not. Heartburn can be a sign of a medical condition that may require further intervention. However, if heartburn did not plague you before pregnancy, it may go away after the baby arrives.
Tips and Warnings
- Yogurt and milk may be useful in soothing heartburn. Even drinking water before bed can cause heartburn. Thus, it is best to avoid consuming anything several hours before bed. Antacids contain extra calcium that may contribute to constipation. If your doctor allows antacids, it is important to drink plenty of fluids and eat high-fiber foods to prevent constipation.
- Avoid herbal or alternative remedies without the consent of your doctor.
Things You'll Need
- Antacid, if approved by physician
