Tips for Treating Heartburn During Pregnancy
If you’re navigating the wild ride of pregnancy, you’ve probably encountered some not-so-fun side effects, and heartburn is a biggie on that list. That fiery sensation in your chest can be a real party crasher. Heartburn is a common thing during pregnancy thanks to pregnancy hormones and your growing baby.
Let’s dive into some helpful ways to keep heartburn at bay so you can focus on that adorable little one growing inside you!
What is Heartburn, and Why Does it Occur During Pregnancy?
Heartburn is that annoying burning sensation that creeps up your chest, usually after you’ve eaten something that didn’t quite agree with you. For many, it’s just an occasional nuisance, but if you’re pregnant, it can turn into a regular guest at the dinner table. Why does this happen?
As your baby grows, the uterus expands and pushes against the stomach, which can cause contents to flow back into the esophagus. It's kind of gross but true! It is especially common during the third trimester. Pregnancy hormones can also cause acid reflux as the increase of progesterone relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).
Is it heartburn or something else?
Acid reflux and heartburn are intertwined, as heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux. But what you're experiencing could be gastroesophageal reflux (GER). Here are the differences:
Acid reflux: Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. This causes the feeling of "heartburn."
Gastroesophageal reflux: This is a broader term that describes the reflux of anything from your stomach, including acid, bile, or food. If this happens frequently or if it is more severe, it could be a case of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Of course, your healthcare provider can help determine what you are experiencing.
Lifestyle Changes That May Help Treat Heartburn During Pregnancy
If you're constantly dealing with that annoying heartburn, it might be time to shake things up a bit in your daily routine. Here are some things to consider:
What you're eating. Cutting down on spicy, fatty, super acidic, or fried foods can make a difference. Think about swapping your late-night pizza for a nice salad or grilled chicken.
How much you're eating. You may feel like you're "eating for two," but a massive plate of food might not help with heartburn. Instead, try to eat small meals more frequently. This helps prevent that stuffed feeling that can trigger heartburn.
Your posture. Believe it or not, sitting up straight while you eat is not just for your grandma; good posture can help keep the acid where it belongs.
Movement. Getting off the couch and getting a bit of exercise can help, too. Just a simple walk after meals can aid digestion and reduce acid reflux.
You might find some sweet relief with a few changes to your diet and lifestyle!
Home Remedies for Heartburn Relief
When heartburn in pregnancy hits, it hits quickly! Here are some home remedies to try before hitting the pharmacy:
Apple cider vinegar mixed with water. It might sound weird, but many folks swear by it to ease the burn. Just a tablespoon in a glass of water can sometimes do the trick!
Almonds. Snacking on a few almonds can help prevent stomach acid from irritating you.
Ginger tea. A classic remedy for digestive issues! If you don't have ginger tea packets, you can make your own by brewing some ginger slices in hot water.
Give these remedies a shot; you might find some relief without having to run to the store!
Positioning Tips to Help Prevent Heartburn Symptoms
If you’re tired of heartburn ruining your day, let’s talk about some positioning tips that can really help.
Elevate your head. Propping your head with an extra pillow or putting pillows under your shoulders can prevent that pesky acid from creeping back up.
Avoid slumping after meals. It’s super tempting to lounge on the couch with your favorite snacks, but staying upright can help keep the acid where it belongs.
Sit up straight. We mentioned this earlier already, but it is helpful. Try to sit up straight and avoid crossing your legs while sitting. This simple adjustment can relieve pressure on your stomach and help prevent that annoying burn.
Who knew that just tweaking your posture could help so much?
When to Talk to Your Doctor about Heartburn and Indigestion in Pregnancy
If you’re dealing with heartburn now and then, it’s usually no biggie. But if you find yourself popping those over-the-counter antacids like they're candy, it might be time to chat with a doctor. If you’re experiencing that burning sensation more than twice a week, it’s a sign you shouldn’t ignore.
Also, watch out for some red flags! Don't wait if your heartburn is severe and accompanied by symptoms like chest pain, difficulty swallowing, or even weight loss. Those could be signs of something more serious; you want to get that checked out.
Lastly, if you’re pregnant or taking any meds that seem to make your heartburn worse, give your healthcare provider a shout. They can make sure you're taking medications that are safe and effective.
Conclusion
Heartburn is common during pregnancy, but if you're craving those fatty foods, maybe skip them. You can take safe antacids, but it's always best to check with your healthcare provider to find the best way to get relief. They might prescribe something more effective if you're really struggling. As pregnancy progresses, keep an eye on how you're feeling and make those little adjustments to prevent and relieve your heartburn.
