What a pregnant woman does not need is another ailment to add to her laundry list, yet heartburn is a common complaint, according to AmericanPregnancy.org. Heartburn refers to the sensation felt in the chest as stomach contents and acid make their way back up the esophagus, to the throat. Pregnancy causes progesterone levels to increase. The hormone, progesterone, causes the lower esophageal spinchter (LES) to relax. The LES is a flap at the base of the esophagus that keeps food from finding its way back up from the stomach. This process may be prevented with a few changes to your routine.
Step 1
Take as many preventative actions as you can to ensure heartburn does not occur. Eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. Don not bend over or lie down for at least an hour after a meal. Avoid spicy, greasy, and fatty foods, according to AmericanPregnancy.org. Try sleeping with pillows propped behind you so you are at an incline. Wear loose fitting clothes to keep the pressure off your stomach. When none of these preventative measure work, it may be time to add an acid-relieving product to your daily routine until your baby comes.
Step 2
Eat yogurt or drink a glass of milk when you experience heartburn. Opt for low fat choices as fat can increase the acid in your stomach. Repeat the yogurt or milk serving when necessary. AmericanPregnancy.org suggests a tablespoon of honey in warm milk as another method of relieving the pain.
Step 3
Try an over-the-counter antacid. Consult your doctor before taking the antacid. Get details from her on how many you can take per day and for how many days. If your heartburn is very uncomfortable, you may be able to take as many antacids as needed.
Step 4
Ask your doctor for help if the over-the-counter medication or home remedies are not providing you enough relief. Your doctor may prescribe a medication that is safe for use during pregnancy to relieve your heartburn.
Tips and Warnings
- Increase your fiber and fluid intake with antacids as they can create or increase your constipation during pregnancy.
Things You'll Need
- Yogurt
- Glass of milk
- 1 tbsp. of honey
