Why heartburn occurs in pregnancy and how to combat it

Heartburn is that annoying sensation, as if it were a burning sensation, that is perceived in the chest or throat area.

Oliver Thansan
Oliver Thansan
28 July 2023 Friday 11:24
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Why heartburn occurs in pregnancy and how to combat it

Heartburn is that annoying sensation, as if it were a burning sensation, that is perceived in the chest or throat area. The reason has to do with stomach acid moving up into the esophagus, causing the pain. In principle, it should not be a cause for concern, since it is very common for it to happen in a timely manner. Especially after a meal or when lying down. However, in the case of pregnant women it is different.

You may never have experienced heartburn until pregnancy, as expectant mothers are much more prone to experiencing this sensation. And the cause has to do precisely with this condition. To combat this acidity there are a number of remedies that will help alleviate it.

It is not a problem that should become a cause for concern, since it is something very common during pregnancy. Heartburn usually appears during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. During this period, the uterus begins to put pressure on the stomach and this, in turn, causes gastric juices to back up into the esophagus. This causes that annoying burning sensation in the chest or throat, which often leaves behind a sour taste in the back of the throat.

It is also possible that it happens due to increased levels of progesterone, a hormone that helps relax muscles. So it is easier for those in charge of keeping the stomach separated from the esophagus not to act optimally, which will make it more likely that acids will go up through it and cause heartburn.

Heartburn in pregnancy is not a serious problem in itself, however, it is recommended to follow some tips that will help alleviate this annoying feeling. One of them is to try to eat slowly, without haste, this will make digestion more effective. The same happens with the fact of chewing food well, to give less work to the stomach. Another notice will be to avoid eating just before bed. As for the elements that should be avoided, these are tomato, onions, garlic and spicy foods.

The position will be another important factor, you have to avoid lying completely flat. That is, a slight inclination, which can be achieved with the help of pillows, will be beneficial to prevent acids from moving up the esophagus and causing the burning sensation.