Heartburn during Pregnancy

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Heartburn is a common occurrence during pregnancy. Although is has nothing to do with the condition of your heart, it does cause a burning sensation in the center of your chest. It may happen after eating or between meals, and be accompanied by burping and a feeling of indigestion.

[edit] Causes

It is caused by pregnancy hormones that relax the stomach and intestinal muscles, causing slower movement of food through the stomach. The food and gastric acids remain in the stomach for longer periods of time. The relaxing action of the hormones on the stomach also can cause acid to travel back up the esophagus and cause heartburn. Later in pregnancy heartburn is worsened by the upward pressure of the expanding uterus.

[edit] Treatment

To help with heartburn, try:

Eating small frequent meals so your stomach does not get overloaded.

Don’t lie down for 30 minutes after eating.

If your heartburn is happening later in pregnancy, try getting on your hands and knees to allow your stomach more room to process the food. Being in this position pulls the uterus away from the stomach.

Pay attention to what foods are aggravating your heartburn and avoid them. Typical culprits are spicy or greasy foods.

Eat small portions of fatty foods as they take the longest to digest.

Coat your stomach with some milk or ice cream before you eat.

Take your liquids away from mealtime to avoid over loading your stomach.

Before meals, take a commercial antacid made from calcium. Ask your healthcare provider first though, as some preparations are not recommended during pregnancy.