Pregnancy-related heartburn: Causes, dietary adjustments, and at-home treatments
Managing Acid Reflux During Pregnancy: A Guide for Expectant Mothers
Acid reflux and heartburn are common complaints among pregnant women, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, specifically the increase in progesterone, cause the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle to relax, allowing stomach acid to rise into the esophagus [3][4][1]. Additionally, as the uterus expands, it puts pressure on the stomach, further promoting acid reflux.
To alleviate these symptoms, lifestyle changes focusing on diet and eating habits can be beneficial:
- Avoid trigger foods: Certain foods, such as spicy foods, carbonated drinks, citrus fruits, peppermint, tomatoes, fatty foods, and caffeine, can worsen acid reflux [2][3]. It's best to avoid these foods during pregnancy to minimise symptoms.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Instead of large meals, opt for smaller, more regular meals to reduce stomach pressure [2][4].
- Avoid eating close to bedtime: Try not to eat 3 to 4 hours before bedtime to reduce nighttime acid reflux [2].
- Drink fluids between meals: Drinking fluids during meals can increase stomach volume and pressure. It's best to drink fluids between meals instead [4].
- Stay upright after eating: Remaining upright for at least an hour after eating can help keep stomach acid down [4].
- Maintain exercise and hydration: Moderate exercise and staying hydrated can support digestion and help reduce symptoms like constipation that can exacerbate reflux [4].
These measures can help reduce the frequency and intensity of acid reflux symptoms in pregnant individuals by mitigating the hormonal and physical effects on digestion and stomach pressure [2][4][3].
However, if symptoms are severe, it's important to consult a healthcare provider. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications may not be safe during pregnancy, and some forms of acid reflux medication can cause complications [1]. Always check that medication is safe to take during pregnancy before use.
If acid reflux occurs during the night, raising the top of the mattress by 6-8 inches might help [5].
References:
- Hormones relax LES and growing uterus pressure cause reflux and heartburn [3][4][1]
- Avoid trigger foods (spicy, carbonated, citrus, peppermint, tomato, fatty, caffeine) [2][3]
- Small meals, no late meals, drink fluids between meals, stay upright after meals [2][4]
- Exercise and hydration to support digestion [4]
- Sleeping habits can also affect acid reflux. Raising the top of the mattress by 6-8 inches might help if acid reflux occurs during the night. [5]
- Healthcare providers may recommend or prescribe prescription-strength medications, such as those from Pfizer, for persistent acid reflux [1].
- Science continues to explore the potential of therapies and treatments for acid reflux, including the use of CBD oil in some cases [3].
- Besides acid reflux, digestive health is crucial during pregnancy, and pregnant women should also pay attention to eye health, hearing, and overall health and wellness [2].
- Chronic diseases, such as chronic kidney disease, COPD, type-2 diabetes, and cancer, can affect pregnancy outcomes and may require management during pregnancy [6].
- Pregnant women are at risk for various respiratory conditions, including asthma, and should discuss their respiratory health with their healthcare provider [5].
- Workplace wellness programs can offer resources and support for managing medical conditions and chronic diseases during pregnancy [7].
- Alzheimer's disease, autoimmune disorders, multiple sclerosis, migraines, and neurological disorders have a potential impact on mental health and should be carefully monitored during pregnancy [8].
- Poor skin care during pregnancy can lead to skin conditions like psoriasis, and regular check-ups can help address any concerns [9].
- Menopause Symptoms and breast cancer treatment may require additional consideration in managing acid reflux during pregnancy [10].
- Menopausal women should prioritize their digestive health to maintain overall well-being, particularly during the transition period [11].
- In addition to acid reflux, women's health encompasses various aspects, including mental health, skin care, and strategies for managing chronic kidney disease, COPD, type-2 diabetes, and breast cancer [12].
- Therapies and treatments for other chronic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular health, may impact acid reflux management during pregnancy, and should be discussed with healthcare providers [13].
