Heartburn

Heartburn is fairly common in many women especially during the last part of pregnancy.

Heartburn is also called acid indigestion. It is a burning sensation that often extends from the bottom of the breastbone to the throat. The acid contents of the stomach may also give an intense sour feeling at the back of the throat.

During pregnancy, the placenta produces the hormone progesterone, which relaxes the smooth muscles of the valve that separates the esophagus (food pipe) from the stomach. This allows gastric acids to seep back up the pipe and causes the uncomfortable burning feeling. In later part of pregnancy, the growing baby crowds your abdominal cavity and pushes up the stomach acids to cause heartburn.

Unfortunately, heartburn during pregnancy is a very unpleasant experience. It can become so bad for some pregnant mothers that not eating at all seems like the best option. It usually comes and goes until the baby is born.

The following steps may minimize the discomfort:

• Sleep propped up with several pillows or elevate the head of your bed. Gravity will help keep your stomach acids down.
• Bend at the knees instead of at the waist.
• Watch the foods you eat. Avoid foods and drinks that cause stomach upset. Examples are carbonated drinks, alcohol, caffeine; chocolate; high-acid foods like citrus fruits and juices, vinegar; spicy, highly seasoned, fried, and oily foods.
• Don't eat big meals. Instead, eat several small meals throughout the day. Take your time eating, and chew thoroughly. After meals you should stay upright for at least 20 minutes.
• Avoid drinking large quantities of fluids during meals so as not to distend the stomach. However. it is important to drink eight to 10 glasses of water daily during pregnancy, but drink it between meals.
• Do not eat your meal 1 hour before bedtime.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing; avoid any tightness around your waist and tummy.

If these solutions do not work, antacid may be prescribed by your doctor to neutralize the gastric acid.