Acid Reflux And Pregnancy
Acid reflux during pregnancy can give a tough time to expecting mothers. Even for women who have never had digestion problems, acid reflux can occur during the pregnancy. Symptoms such as severe heartburn, burning sensation and sourly taste can proclaim pregnancy acid reflux. During pregnancy, the increased level of progesterone secreted by the placenta causes the muscles of the uterus to relax. It also relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter valve to relax. Hence, the contents of the stomach are released back into the food pipe causing pregnancy acid reflux. Pregnancy acid reflux is a harmless condition and normally they occur during the second trimester onwards. This acid reflux problem comes and goes throughout the pregnancy term. It can be extremely uncomfortable with the increasing body weight. Preventing Acid Reflux in Pregnancy Pregnancy acid reflux is beyond any women's control. The growing fetus exerts pressure on the stomach and therefore the sphincter valve opens up, causing heartburn. However, steps may be taken to alleviate the symptoms of acid reflux. Eliminating the intake of carbonated beverages such as cold-drink, soda can help reduce pregnancy acid reflux. Other such drinks that should be avoided during pregnancy are alcohol, tea and coffee. Though pregnancy is a condition that is marked by abnormal cravings for food but pregnant women should try to avoid spicy and oily stuff. Simple and nutritive meals are good for the fetus as well for preventing pregnancy acid reflux. Eating smaller meals frequently is preferred rather than over eating. With a little bit of control and perseverance one can obtain great relief from pregnancy acid reflux. Pregnant women also constantly feel exhausted and drained. In this case, drinking enough quantities of fluids can help fight the problem of tiredness. However, refrain from drinking fluids during meals as they can make the stomach lining stretched and cause pregnancy acid reflux. Lying down immediately after a meal is not a great idea and in fact gives you a sleepless night instead of any relief. One should sit upright in a comfortable chair rather than slouching down. Pregnant women must also meticulously choose comfortable clothing for themselves. Light exercise postures can also help reduce the feeling of bloating. Pregnancy acid reflux can also occur because of excess weight gain during pregnancy. One must eat healthy and sensibly. Ideally, the weight gain during pregnancy should be somewhere around 11-13 kg. Sensible eating with lots of fruits and vegetables should be introduced. Some over the counter medications can be prescribed by your gynecologist for pregnancy acid reflux problems. Some heartburn medications that may help reduce heartburn are Tums, Maalox, Mylanta etc. However, no medications should be taken without talking to the doctor as they may contain substances that can harm the fetus.
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