Heartburn During Pregnancy

Heartburn will be experienced by most of us at some time in our lives but pregnant women can be particularly prone. If you’re experiencing that burning sensation and want to get rid of it, here are some practical ways of combating heartburn during pregnancy.

Pregnancy can increase your risk of getting heartburn because pregnancy hormones have a relaxing effect on the valve at the end of your oesophagus which allows food and drink into your stomach. The valve may not close properly and the acid escapes back up. Heartburn can happen at any time from twenty weeks onward, but it’s more usual and frequent in the latter stages of pregnancy. Unfortunately it tends to get worse as pregnancy progresses, as your uterus gets bigger and puts more pressure on your stomach. But don’t panic as two in every three women experience heartburn and it causes no harm to you or your baby.

Although you probably can’t avoid heartburn entirely during pregnancy you can take steps to relieve it.

Certain food and drinks are known to exacerbate heartburn carbonated drinks caffeine fatty foods and unfortunately chocolate you should minimize or avoid your intake of these.I`m sure you are all aware of the dangers of taking alcohol and tobacco during pregnancy these also cause and exacerbate heartburn and should be completely avoided.

Try not to eat big meals instead have several smaller meals to avoid distending your stomach, if possible plan to eat your last meal at least two hours before going to bed.

Think about your diet eat healthy take exercise and avoid stress this simple steps will help to reduce or even avoid heartburn altogether.

Remember if you are worried about anything during your pregnancy talk to your doctor or midwife they are there to help.