Heartburn Caused Pregnancy Help
Heartburn caused by pregnancy is usually
a temporary problem but still an uncomfortable
experience
Have you been suffering from pregnancy heartburn lately? If you are not sure what is causing the discomfort and haven’t had a chance to go over it with your doctor, here are some facts that can help.
What causes pregnancy heartburn?
Pregnancy is a time of important change for a woman. It’s a natural time for heartburn, in a manner of speaking. For first time mothers to be it can be an uncomfortable experience. Often the first indication that something is amiss is a burning sensation behind the breastbone.
The body under goes a great many changes as child development takes place. One of these changes is the result of progesterone, a hormone that slows down the wavelike contractions your esophagus and intestines make. This is a normal action that pushes the food along the gastrointestinal tract. The hormone progesterone inhibits this, making digestion sluggish. This can affect the esophagus and the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and small intestine, which can cause this digestion discomfort.
Later in pregnancy, usually starting in the second trimester, your growing baby starts to crowd your abdominal cavity. pushing the stomach acids back up into the esophagus.
Heartburn symptoms can occur at meal times or randomly. Even a shift in posture, like leaning to the side or reclining can trigger heartburn.
What can I do about this heartburn?
This is a condition that cannot be completely eliminated while pregnant but there are steps you can take that can be helpful.
1) A bland diet can help. Avoid hard to digest foods like fried foods. Also spicy and acidic foods and drinks. These includes sodas and most carbonated beverages that contain acid additives.
2) Eat smaller meals, more frequently.
3) Make your last meal small and give a couple of hours for digestion before bedtime.
4) If possible, sleep with your head elevated and try not to sleep on your right side.
Pregnancy handbooks and your doctor can provide you with more detailed information about heartburn caused by pregnancy.
Articles are catalogued to give information on this topic or provide links to useful information on the topic of heartburn relief and related issues. A recommended heartburn solution is available in an easy 5-step plan. |