Acid Reflux During Pregnancy

GER (gastro esophageal reflux) commonly known as Acid Reflux happens when the acid from the stomach backs up into the esophagus and up toward the throat burning it. This condition is usually associated with older or overweight individuals with bad diets. However, it has been estimated that as much as 80% of pregnant women suffer from heartburn symptoms that can be credited to GER. These symptoms can range from very mild to very severe, it generally only last the length of the pregnancy.

Acid reflux is most common during the third trimester as the baby begins to grow larger and presses upward on the abdomen. The morning sickness experienced during the first trimester is usually due to the placenta producing the female hormone progesterone. Progesterone relaxes the smooth muscles in the uterus allowing it to stretch, but unfortunately it also relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) allowing stomach acid to reflux or back flow into the esophagus. When this happens you experience discomfort or a burning sensation in the chest just below your breast bone.

During the third trimester the uterus enlarges as the baby grows and crowds the abdominal cavity pushing the stomach up against the esophagus. This pressure against the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) can cause acid reflux or heartburn. If the baby is particularly large a portion of the stomach can be push up through the diaphragm’s esophageal hiatus opening resulting in a hiatal hernia, which also contribute to acid reflux.

What’s a mother to do?

During pregnancy treating acid reflux can become a balancing act between remedies, diet, exercise and making sure the baby gets what it needs. Generally, during pregnancy you want to avoid medications as much as possible because of the there potential negative effect on the unborn child. But at the same time you would like some relief from that awful burning feeling.

These steps will help reduce your acid reflux or heartburn symptoms:

• Eat small meals throughout the day rather than three large meals
• Avoid drinking large quantities of fluids during meals; you don’t want to become dehydrated so sip water throughout the day making sure to get 8 to 10 cups of water.
• Chewing gum can stimulate your saliva, which can help neutralize acid.
• Try a small amount of ginger to help relieve gas, nausea and regurgitation.
• Sleep with your head and shoulders elevated.
• Don’t wear clothes that are tight especially around the stomach area.
• Don’t Smoke, smoking stimulates the production of stomach acid.
• Avoid Alcoholic drinks.
• Use a calcium based antacid, but always check with your doctor first. Always avoid antacids that contain Aluminum or Magnesium.

If after trying the above helps, you don’t find relief from your acid reflux cause from pregnancy contact your doctor he may provide you with a pregnancy safe prescription.