Heartburn During Pregnancy -what Is The Cause Of Heartburn?
Heartburn during pregnancy is very common
Heartburn during pregnancy is very common. It is also known as acid reflux or acid indigestion. It generally begins during the second trimester and carries into the third trimester. The physical and hormonal changes in your body are often times the cause, however, heartburn during pregnancy is sometimes affected by your diet and the foods you eat.
Although it is called heartburn, it has nothing to do with the heart and it is because the generalized location where discomfort is felt. Heartburn occurs because food digestion slows down or because the enlarged pregnant uterus is pressing on the stomach.
The hormone, progesterone which is released during pregnancy relaxes the stomach muscles which can the stomach acids to rise up and into the throat. These acids are what create the burning sensation in your throat. Heartburn and pregnancy are said to come hand in hand. Consider the following precautions to avoid factors causing heartburn during pregnancy.
These include eating smaller meals more often instead of overeating and avoid greasy, fatty, and fried foods Wear clothing that is loose and baggy around your stomach and abdominal area. If you've tried altering your diet and still don't know the cause of heartburn then talk to your physician about it. You might try chewing gum after eating to try to neutralize the acids in your stomach.
If the heartburn still continues, then contact your physician and discuss what antacid would work best for you. Over the counter antacids that generally work best for a pregnant woman are the antacids containing calcium and magnesium. Some antacids need to be avoided because of the sodium, aspirin and the aluminum content. Your doctor may also prescribe an antacid for you if the over the counter products do not work. Antacids can be taken orally in tablet form or liquid form. It is most effective when taking with a small meal or snack.
If antacids are not doing the trick you may need to take an acid reducer instead. Sometimes a combination is needed and the relief of it can last up to twelve hours. Heartburn during pregnancy may cause discomfort, but can be bearable if you know the right foods to avoid and the cause of heartburn.