Pregnancy is a miraculous journey filled with excitement, anticipation, and yes, discomforts. One of the most common discomforts that expecting mothers face is heartburn. Despite its misleading name, heartburn doesn’t involve your heart. It’s a burning sensation in the esophagus, caused by acidic stomach contents refluxing into it. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the causes of heartburn during pregnancy, along with effective coping strategies to alleviate the discomfort.
Did you know?
Severe heartburn can mimic the symptoms of a heart attack or angina. If you’re uncertain about the cause, seek medical attention promptly.
UNDERSTANDING THE CAUSES OF HEARTBURN DURING PREGNANCY
1
Hormonal Changes:
Pregnancy brings about significant hormonal fluctuations, including elevated levels of progesterone. Progesterone has the unfortunate side effect of relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscular valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach. When the LES relaxes excessively, it fails to prevent the backflow of acidic stomach contents into the esophagus, leading to heartburn.
2
Gastrointestinal Changes:
The digestive system undergoes various changes during pregnancy, primarily to accommodate the growing fetus. Slowed digestion, caused by hormonal influences, allows food to remain in the stomach for longer periods, increasing the likelihood of acid reflux. Additionally, as the uterus expands to accommodate the growing baby, it exerts pressure on the stomach, further promoting reflux.
3
Dietary Triggers:
Certain foods and beverages can exacerbate heartburn symptoms during pregnancy. Spicy, fatty, and acidic foods, along with caffeine and carbonated drinks, are notorious culprits. These items can weaken the LES or stimulate acid production in the stomach, aggravating heartburn.
Did you know?
Peppermint, often used to soothe upset stomachs, can relax the muscles between the stomach and esophagus, leading to heartburn.
Mountsinai.org
4
Lifestyle Factors:
Smoking during pregnancy not only poses risks to fetal health but also contributes to heartburn. Smoking weakens the LES and promotes acid reflux, intensifying discomfort. Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption can exacerbate heartburn symptoms and should be avoided during pregnancy.
Did you know?
Secondhand smoke exposure is linked to heartburn, so being around smokers regularly may increase your risk of experiencing it.
5
Physical Changes:
As the pregnancy progresses, the growing uterus displaces abdominal organs, including the stomach. This displacement can further compromise the function of the LES, allowing acid to reflux more easily into the esophagus. Heartburn tends to become more pronounced in the later stages of pregnancy due to increased uterine size and pressure on the stomach.
Combat stretch marks with UMA Body Oils. Massage twice daily during the 2nd trimester to alleviate itching and redness.
Did you know?
Tight clothing, like belts or waistbands, can exacerbate heartburn by increasing pressure on the stomach and forcing acid into the esophagus. Loosening your belt may alleviate symptoms.
Healthwise Staff 2023
PREVALENCE OF HEARTBURN DURING PREGNANCY
Statistics reveal that anywhere from 17% to 75% of pregnant individuals experience heartburn, making it a prevalent discomfort during gestation. Whether it’s your first pregnancy or not, the likelihood of experiencing heartburn increases, particularly in the second and third trimesters.
BMJ Clin Evid. 2015
MANAGING HEARTBURN DURING PREGNANCY [Can Fam Physician. 2010]
Thankfully, there are several coping strategies to ease the discomfort of heartburn during pregnancy:
- Dietary Modifications: Avoid trigger foods such as citrus, spicy, fatty, and caffeinated foods, along with carbonated drinks. Opt for smaller, more frequent meals and avoid eating or drinking three hours before bedtime.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Take your time while eating, sit up straight, and resist lying down immediately after meals. Elevating your head while sleeping can also mitigate symptoms.
- Natural Remedies: Yogurt, milk, or honey mixed with warm milk can offer relief. Chewing gum can help neutralize acid in the esophagus.
- Over-the-counter Medications: Nonprescription antacids like Tums® or Maalox® can provide temporary relief, but it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication during pregnancy.
- Oil Massage: There’s evidence indicating that specific oils can alleviate heartburn. Ginger, traditionally used for stomach issues, including products with ginger essential oil, might help ease heartburn symptoms.
LONG-TERM STRATEGIES FOR HEARTBURN MANAGEMENT
Beyond immediate relief, adopting certain lifestyle changes can prevent recurrent episodes of heartburn:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts pressure on the stomach, increasing the risk of acid reflux. A balanced diet and regular exercise are crucial for managing weight during pregnancy.
- Elevate Bed Position: Sleeping with the head and chest elevated can prevent acid reflux during sleep. Using foam wedges or adjusting the bed’s height can aid in maintaining an elevated position.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking exacerbates heartburn symptoms by weakening the lower esophageal sphincter. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of heartburn.
SEEKING MEDICAL ADVICE
If heartburn persists or becomes severe, it’s imperative to consult with a healthcare provider. They can offer personalized recommendations and prescribe safe medications to alleviate symptoms while ensuring the well-being of both the mother and the fetus.
Heartburn during pregnancy may be a common discomfort, but it doesn’t have to overshadow the joy of expecting a child. By understanding the underlying causes, implementing dietary modifications, and lifestyle adjustments, and seeking medical guidance when necessary, expecting mothers can effectively manage heartburn and focus on the miraculous journey of pregnancy. Remember, a healthy and happy pregnancy is within reach with the right strategies and support.
