Heartburns during pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time when you will experience discomfort of the type that you are not really familiar with. From cramps to constipation to flatulence, you will have it all. Another common occurrence during pregnancy is heartburn. This is a burning sensation that spreads down your throat right down to below you breast bone. While it may come and go during your pregnancy, the last trimester is when it hits the most.
Also known as acid reflux or acid indigestion, heartburns are quite common in pregnancies. Heartburn is a result of hormonal as well as physical changes that your body undergoes. The hormone progesterone tends to loosen the separation between your oesophagus and your stomach. This allows acidic digestive juices to flow in the wrong direction resulting in heartburn. In your final trimester, your baby will be taking up a lot of space in your abdominal area and slowing down the digestion process. This in turn pushes up digestive juices which lead to heartburns.
Heartburn cannot be resolved in any surefire way, but you will be able to take some measures to prevent or control it. Stay away from rich and spicy food. As much as you might hate it you will also have to give up chocolates, citrus fruits and juices and all forms of caffeine and alcohol. Also stay away from fatty foods. While it is important to stay hydrated during pregnancy, avoid the intake of too much liquid during your meals. Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day but only sip on it during meal times.
Try and eat smaller more frequent meals and eat them slowly. This will prevent you from distending your stomach. Do not go to bed for at least three hours after you eat. When you sleep, prop up your head with some pillows. Slip into loose and comfortable clothing. Try drawstring pants. Try and exercise regularly if you are allowed to and do not stress yourself in any way. This is turn can cause indigestion and increase heartburn.
A simple tip would be to chew gum after your meals. This will activate your salivary glands and coax them to produce saliva that neutralizes acids. When you need to pick something up try bending at your knees rather than bending down at your waist.
If all fails then ask your doctor if the use of antacids is okay and in what frequency. You have to remember that pregnancy heartburns will stop soon after your delivery and that this is only a temporary phase.
