Heartburn Pregnancy - Don't Worry, Maintain Diet

Many women experience heartburn pregnancy for the first time during pregnancy - and though it's common and generally harmless, can be quite uncomfortable.

In heartburn, burning sensation extends from the bottom of the breastbone to the lower throat. It's caused by some of the hormonal and physical changes in your body. The causes for heartburn are many. The placenta produces the hormone progesterone, which relaxes the smooth muscles of the uterus. This hormone also relaxes the valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach, allowing gastric acids to seep back up, which causes that unpleasant burning sensation. Progesterone also slows down the wavelike contractions of your esophagus and intestines, making digestion sluggish. The growing baby crowds your abdominal cavity, pushing the stomach acids back into the esophagus, leading to burning sensation in the chest.

How To Overcome It?

Avoid large meals, highly spiced or fried foods. Don't eat big meals. Instead, eat several small meals throughout the day. Take your time eating and chew thoroughly. Avoid drinking large quantities of fluids during meals - you don't want to distend your stomach. (It's important to drink eight to ten glasses of water daily during heartburn pregnancy, but sip it between meals.

Try chewing gum after eating. Chewing gum stimulates your salivary glands, and saliva can help neutralize acid. Don't eat close to bedtime. Give yourself two to three hours to digest before you lie down. Sleep propped up with several pillows or a wedge. Elevating your upper body will help keep your stomach acids where they belong and will aid your digestion. It is necessary in heartburn pregnancy to gain a sensible amount of weight, and stay within the guidelines your healthcare provider suggests. Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Avoid any tightness around your waist and tummy. Bend at the knees instead of at the waist.

Give up smoking, if you do as smoking boosts stomach acidity. Ideally, smoking should be discontinued before getting pregnant. If you're still smoking and are having trouble quitting, ask your caregiver for a referral to a smoking cessation program. An over-the-counter antacid that contains magnesium or calcium may ease discomfort, but check with your prenatal caregiver before taking one, because some brands contain aluminum or aspirin or are high in sodium.

So, heartburn pregnancy should be dealt with patience and care. Don't panic. Follow all these instructions well. If still the problem persists; consult your doctor, who may prescribe a medicine to treat stomach acidity.