Acidity In Pregnancy? Know How To Overcome It!

Many women experience heart burn and acidity during pregnancy. It is common and generally harmless and can be quite uncomfortable. Do you know why it is common in pregnancy?

The hormone progesterone released by the placenta relaxes the muscles of the stomach. As a result of this, the gastric acids present in the stomach can seep back into the esophagus causing an unpleasant burning sensation. Progesterone also reduces the wave-like motion of the esophagus and intestines further making digestion slow and sluggish.

In the later stages of pregnancy, the growing baby crowds the abdominal activity, further pushing the stomach acids back into the esophagus.

Gastrointestinal disturbances are commonly experienced from the second half of pregnancy. And unfortunately, it comes and stays till your baby is born.

How to reduce discomfort?

Though it is difficult to eliminate acidity completely, you can consider these steps to minimize the discomfort:
• Avoid food and beverages like carbonated beverages, caffeine, processed meats, highly seasoned spicy, fried and fatty foods.
• Don't indulge in heavy meals. Eat small meals evenly spread throughout the day. Make sure you chew your food thoroughly.
• Avoid having your dinner close to bed time. Maintain a gap of two to three hours before you lie down.
• Target a sensible weight gain and stick to the guidelines suggested by your health care provider.
• Elevate your upper body when you sleep using several pillows or a wedge. This will prevent the stomach acids from moving back into the esophagus and will help in better digestion.
• Avoid clothes that are tight around your tummy. Wear soft, loose and comfortable clothing.
• Avoid over-the-counter antacids. Consult with your gynecologist before taking one.

If these measures are not giving you relief, talk to your gynecologist about it. She may prescribe medications that are safe in pregnancy to reduce acidity and heart burn.