Heartburn during Pregnancy: How to Reduce Heartburn and Acidity ?

Your best chance of avoiding the searing, gnawing sensation associated with pregnancy heartburn is prevention.

How does heartburn during pregnancy feel?

Heartburn is a burning feeling that frequently spreads to the lower throat from the base of the breastbone. Even though heartburn is frequent and usually harmless, it can be rather uncomfortable for many women who encounter it for the first time during pregnancy. During pregnancy, over two-thirds of women experience acid reflux or heartburn.

During pregnancy, heartburn and associated problems like gas and bloating typically begin in the second or third trimester, though some women may experience them earlier. The discomfort will usually come and go until your baby is born, but in most situations heartburn is no longer a problem following delivery.

What causes pregnancy-related heartburn?

Heartburn may result from some of the physical and chemical changes that occur during pregnancy. For instance, the hormone progesterone, which is produced by the placenta, relaxes the uterine smooth muscles. Additionally, this hormone relaxes the valve that divides the stomach and esophagus, which can allow stomach acid to reflux and result in that uncomfortable burning feeling in your throat.

Additionally, progesterone slows down the wavelike contractions of your intestines and esophagus, which might slow down digestion. As your growing baby fills your abdominal cavity later in pregnancy, stomach acid is forced back up into your esophagus.

What relieves pregnancy-related heartburn?

The greatest way to lessen heartburn during pregnancy is to prevent it. Here are several strategies to prevent the condition and lessen any discomfort, even though you might not be able to completely avoid it:

• Steer clear of foods and beverages that cause stomach distress, such as foods that are fatty, spicy, fried, or heavily seasoned, as well as carbonated drinks, alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, citrus fruits and juices, tomatoes, mustard, vinegar, mint items, and processed meats.
• Consume tiny meals. Eat multiple modest meals throughout the day as opposed to three large ones. Eat slowly and chew your food well.
• Water should be consumed between meals. During pregnancy, it's crucial to drink lots of water each day, but consuming too much liquid might cause stomach distension. Drink the majority of your water between meals to stay hydrated.
• Eat two or three hours before to going to bed. Before you lie down, this allows your body to digest.
• Propped up, sleep. When you sleep, raise your upper torso by roughly 6 inches using a wedge or multiple pillows. This facilitates digestion and keeps stomach acid at bay.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing. Dress comfortably and loosely. Avoid wearing clothing that is too tight around your stomach and waist.
• Inquire with your doctor about heartburn medications. An antacid with calcium or magnesium may help reduce pain. Before taking one, speak with your doctor because some brands contain aspirin or aluminum, or are heavy in salt. Additionally, you can discuss prescription heartburn treatments that are safe to take while pregnant with your healthcare professional.
• Avoid smoking. While smoking increases stomach acid, it also contributes to major health issues. (Ask your healthcare physician to recommend a smoking cessation program if you're struggling to stop.)