Indigestion And Heartburn During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is almost always associated with somewhat different side effects. They are due not only to fetal development and thus to uterine growth, but also to other physical and metabolic changes in the mother’s body. The changes do not affect all pregnant women in the same way, but the number and severity of symptoms are individual. For example, indigestion and heartburn during pregnancy are a nuisance for many expectant mothers, and that is what we will talk about in more detail today.

What causes indigestion during pregnancy?

Indigestion during pregnancy can be caused by, for example, uterine enlargement or the diet of the expectant mother. Hormonal changes are also one of the causes of digestive problems. It is known, for example, that progesterone, or luteinizing hormone, has a major effect on the development of heartburn and other indigestion.

During pregnancy, the placenta secretes progesterone, which, among other things, helps to relax the uterine muscles. Unfortunately, this hormone has a similar effect on the separating flap of the stomach and esophagus. This means that stomach acid can rise in the esophagus, causing a burning sensation known as heartburn or reflux. At the same time, progesterone reduces the contraction of the digestive system, which slows down digestion. This, and the fact that the growing baby presses on the stomach, can cause the expectant mother considerable discomfort.

Treatment of indigestion during pregnancy

While completely preventing indigestion can be a difficult task, there are some ways you can delay or reduce the chance of it occurring. These are also useful ways to relieve indigestion and heartburn, but also reduce discomfort and make it easier to tolerate these symptoms.

• Avoid eating too much. Meals should be kept light during pregnancy. It is better to eat several smaller portions and snacks during the day to avoid indigestion.
• Be careful with certain foods. It is good to avoid very fatty and spicy foods, caffeinated soft drinks and sugary desserts. Instead, you should add fruits and vegetables to your diet.
• Eat calmly. Chew food slowly as it will make it easier to digest the food. Eating calmly also helps prevent the burning sensation after eating.

• Drink water between meals.  When you are pregnant, it is important to get enough water. However, it is also possible to drink it too much: excessive drinking of water can lead to swelling.
• Eat canned after a meal. It stimulates the salivary glands. Saliva helps to neutralize acids.
• Avoid eating just before going to bed.  Wait an hour or two after a meal for better digestion. You can also try sleeping at a 45 degree angle.  This position helps to avoid reflux, keeping the stomach acids in the stomach.
• Wear comfortable and loose clothing, avoiding clothing that tightens the waist and abdomen.
• Do not smoke. In addition to being dangerous to the health of both you and your baby, smoking also increases stomach acid.
• Avoid stress. Strive for calm and serenity, and try gentle physical activity or breathing exercises. In addition to helping with the burning sensation, they are also good for your overall well-being.

What to do if indigestion persists?

If you’ve already tried all the tricks we’ve introduced, but the unpleasant sensations just keep going, there are some natural cures that can relieve many of the symptoms. It is good to start by drinking plenty of fluids. One natural treatment is to take a teaspoon of olive oil on an empty stomach. This helps the stomach acids to be absorbed. Moderate consumption of milk and yogurt can also soothe symptoms. However, some are sensitive to dairy products, so they can also worsen symptoms.

If none of the treatments we offer help, you may want to discuss this with your doctor. Gastric acid neutralizing preparations work quickly, but they can also have nasty side effects. Remember that you should only take the medication prescribed by your doctor, as the medication may affect the health and development of your future child.