Most pregnant women may expect morning sickness, but they do not realize how many other digestive problems can occur during pregnancy. Most of these are caused by the hormone progesterone relaxing the muscles of the digestive system, which slows digestion of food. If you're pregnant, find out what to expect so you'll be prepared.
Heartburn
Heartburn, a burning sensation felt from the bottom of the breastbone to the lower throat, is experienced by many women during pregnancy. This occurs because pregnancy hormones cause the valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach to relax, and also because the enlarging uterus puts pressure on the stomach and pushes acid into the esophagus. Although it may not be possible to eliminate heartburn entirely, you can take steps to alleviate it. Avoid large meals, sleep propped up slightly, avoid lying down after eating and wear lose clothing. Chewing gum can also help, according to the parenting website BabyCenter.com. Ask your doctor about using an antacid, too.
Constipation
Pregnancy hormones can relax muscles in the bowels and slow down digestion, which causes many pregnant women to become constipated at some point. Passing hard or dry stool, having painful bowel movements or having fewer than three bowel movements a week are signs of constipation, according to the National Women's Health Information Center. To alleviate constipation, drink plenty of water, eat fiber-rich foods and get some exercise daily, such as a brisk walk. The Mayo Clinic also suggests asking your doctor about using a stool softener.
Gas
Gas is typically produced when food that was not digested fully by enzymes in the stomach and small intestine gets broken down by the bacteria in the large intestine, states BabyCenter.com. Since pregnancy slows digestion, this gives the bacteria in the large intestine more time to work on this undigested material and generates more gas. If you suffer from gas, avoid tight clothing, carbonated beverages and gas-producing foods such as broccoli and beans.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, also referred to as morning sickness, is experienced by more than half of pregnant women, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Although morning sickness tends to dissipate after the first three months, some women will experience nausea and vomiting throughout the pregnancy. To alleviate morning sickness, eat smaller but more frequent meals, avoid strong smells, and try eating saltines or watermelon to settle your stomach. If you experience hyperemesis gravidarum, a condition characterized by persistent, intense vomiting and weight loss, see your doctor immediately; you may need to be treated in the hospital.
