Pregnancy can bring a number of uncomfortable symptoms, and heartburn is one of the most common. Heartburn during pregnancy occurs when stomach acid flows back up into your esophagus, causing a burning sensation in your chest or throat. While it can be difficult to avoid heartburn altogether, there are ways to help ease the discomfort. Here’s what you need to know about pregnancy heartburn and how to get relief:
1. Avoid Trigger Foods – Certain foods may increase stomach acid levels and cause worsening of heartburn symptoms. Typical trigger foods include spicy and acidic foods such as tomatoes, hot peppers, citrus fruits, garlic and onions. Eating smaller meals throughout the day rather than large meals can also reduce symptoms.
2. Eat Slowly – Eating too quickly can cause you to swallow more air which can lead to increased amounts of gas in your stomach and an increase in pressure that pushes against your esophageal sphincter (the muscle at the end of your esophagus) causing acid reflux. Take time while eating to chew properly and avoid over-eating.
3. Stay Upright – Gravity works in your favor when trying to prevent pregnancy heartburn or alleviate the symptoms by keeping food down where it belongs—in your stomach! Remaining lying down for several hours after consuming food increases pressure on the LES (lower esophageal sphincter) which can cause food or acid to come back up into the esophagus leading to pain and discomfort.
4. Wear Loose Clothing – Wearing loose fitting clothing can help alleviate some of the pressure on your abdomen that contributes to pregnancy heartburn pain by allowing for better digestion and reducing strain on the muscles around your abdomen area.
5. Sleep On Your Left Side – Research has found that sleeping on your left side helps reduce nighttime acid reflux because laying flat causes stomach acids flowing from the stomach back up into the esophagus due to gravity pulling it down towards where you are lying/sleeping. This position also keeps pressure off major blood vessels helping improve circulation for both mom & baby!
6. Avoid Smoking & Alcohol Use – Both smoking cigarettes & drinking alcohol have been linked with increasing the risk of developing GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). If quitting is not an option right now then try limiting these activities as much as possible while pregnant as they will only make worse any existing heartburn symptoms you may have already been experiencing due to pregnancy hormones causing laxity/relaxation of various muscles involved in digestion/etc….
7. Consider Medications – Over-the-counter medications such as antacids or H2 blockers can help reduce excess stomach acids that contribute to heartburn during pregnancy but should always be taken under doctor supervision as some medications are not safe for use during this fragile time period (ie: Tums). Additionally, speak with a Doula Greenwich CT or Doula NYC specialist who specializes in providing support before, during, & after the birth! Finding the best doulas NYC or CT can make all the difference in your pregnancy journey.
By following these steps, you can help minimize your heartburn symptoms and reduce any associated pain. Remember to always consult with a doctor before taking any medications during pregnancy. With proper care and support from professionals like Doulas Greenwich CT & NYC specialists, you can have a healthy and comfortable pregnancy!
For more information on doulas Greenwich CT or finding the best doulas NYC has to offer, visit our website today. You’ll find up-to-date information on local services and qualified professionals who are ready to help ensure you have an enjoyable experience throughout your entire pregnancy journey!
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References:
https://www.ucsfhealth.org/education/heartburn_during_pregnancy
https://obgynsubspecialistsllc.com/7-tips-for-dealing-with-heartburn-during-pregnancy/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283/#b1
https://www.doulamatch.net/find-your-doula/greenwich-ct
https://www.doulamatch.net/find-your-doula/nyc-newyorkcity
