Heartburn, medically known as reflux, is a common side effect of the last months of pregnancy. It usually begins in the seventh month of pregnancy and often does not go away until delivery. Heartburn during pregnancy is excruciating from experience, but poses no health risk to the fetus or mother.
Why pregnant women often suffer from heartburn
There are two reasons for the occurrence of heartburn during pregnancy. First, it is rooted in the corpus luteum hormone progesterone. This is produced in the placenta and is thought to relax the muscles in the uterus to prevent premature labor. The sphincter muscle between the stomach and esophagus is also affected by the slackening effect and opens even by slight contractions of the stomach. On the other hand, the cause lies in the abdominal cavity itself. Towards the end of pregnancy, it offers hardly any space for the mother’s internal organs due to the growing child. Consequently, her stomach is pushed into the upper area, where it exerts pressure on the sphincter muscle. The muscle, already weakened by progesterone, cannot withstand this pressure and opens. Pregnant women cannot influence the subsequent influence of stomach acid into the esophagus.
What happens when heartburn occurs during pregnancy?
Usually, the sphincter, medically called esophageal sphincter, prevents the aggressive stomach acid from entering the sensitive esophagus. This is not surrounded by a protective mucosa and is vulnerable to the hydrochloric acid of the gastric juice. The irritation triggers a burning sensation or pain behind the breastbone, which can radiate to the jaw. Furthermore, regurgitation of acidic stomach contents is possible. It causes a bitter taste in the mouth and can also affect the teeth if it occurs frequently. Furthermore, heartburn can also be accompanied by gastric pressure, a feeling of fullness and a strong flow of saliva. Even hoarseness and coughing can be symptoms of severe reflux of stomach acid.
General tips against heartburn
Direct prevention of heartburn is impossible, but there are several ways to relieve the unpleasant symptoms and reduce the risk of recurrence. The most important goal is to minimize and bind excess stomach acid. Hazelnuts, almonds, oatmeal and sunflower seeds are said to absorb the corrosive juice and it is recommended to keep them handy during the last weeks of pregnancy. The same goes for spicy mustard, healing clay dissolved in water to drink, fresh ginger tea, milk or better yet unsweetened yogurt. Chewing gum also usually contains ingredients that can neutralize stomach acid. At the same time, constant chewing stimulates the production of saliva, which can also stop the acid. Help on the go is provided by acupressure. In the middle of the upper half of the thumb is the corresponding point. If it is pressed on both hands for about half a minute, a positive effect is said to occur. At night, due to gravity, it is recommended to sleep with the upper body elevated. If there is no possibility to adjust the bed accordingly or improvise with several pillows, sleeping should always be on the left side of the body. The anatomy of the digestive tract has a small advantage there. If the stomach acid arises due to stress, it is advisable to shift down a gear and get more rest. In addition, pay attention to the clothing, which should be loose-fitting and not further squeeze the stomach.
Diet tips for heartburn
Moreover, it can be remedied with the eating behavior. Many foods unnecessarily stimulate the production of gastric juice and it is suggested to eliminate them from the menu. These include citrus fruits, chocolate and other sweets, products made from white flour and foods prepared with vinegar. In general, very spicy or fatty foods should be avoided. The longer the digestion time and thus the time spent in the stomach of the dish, the greater the likelihood that heartburn will subsequently occur. Therefore, it is also better to keep portions small and to chew particularly well. Furthermore, it is better not to lie down after a meal or to eat large portions shortly before going to bed. Drinking should be plentiful, but not at mealtimes, otherwise the stomach is senselessly stretched.Coffee, juices with a high fruit acid content and carbonated drinks are not recommended. Still mineral waters or herbal teas without added sugar are ideal. Alcohol and cigarettes are taboo during pregnancy and breastfeeding anyway, but would be equally to avoid, as they also promote heartburn.
If it gets too bad: Medications for heartburn
If the various recommendations show no remedy, pharmaceutical products can be resorted to. A variety is freely available in stores, but self-medication during pregnancy should be compellingly excluded. In the case of severe symptoms, the doctor will additionally check whether more serious diseases can be ruled out. A severely inflamed and burned esophagus is vulnerable to attack and forms scars and ulcers. The consequences are a narrowing of the tube and possible bleeding. In the worst case, Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition, develops. Homeopathic remedies for heartburn are also on the market. Here, too, it is important to consult your naturopath in advance to discuss a dosage tailored to your pregnancy and to protect the unborn child from possible side effects. Moreover, it is worth consulting the midwife. Their years of experience lead to a rich treasure of experience from other pregnancies and their accompanying symptoms.
