Most pregnant women have cases of heartburn most of their pregnancy. This causes them to seek ways that will facilitate heartburn relief during pregnancy. There are many myths associated with heartburn during pregnancy although there are now many methods of treating this condition. Since it is a very uncomfortable and irritating sensation, most pregnant women look for immediate heartburn relief by taking over-the-counter antacids. However, it is important to talk to a doctor before taking any medication to help with heartburn relief during pregnancy.
Heartburn occurs when stomach acids move to the esophagus causing pressure, pain and a burning sensation from the stomach all the way to the chest and sometimes to the jaws and back. This is not only uncomfortable but also painful for most pregnant women. Severe cases of heartburn lead to sleeplessness and therefore irritability. Heartburn relief during pregnancy is very important as it enables a pregnant woman focus on more important issues instead of dealing with pain and discomfort.
Causes Of Heartburn During Pregnancy
A pregnant woman’s body experiences so many changes that the woman may not bother keeping track. One of the changes is that it produces larger quantities of progesterone, which affects production of stomach acids. Progesterone also relaxes muscles between the esophagus and the stomach and therefore causes more acid to pass through. Progesterone also slows down the digestion process and therefore keeps the acid in the stomach longer than usual. Another cause that makes women look for heartburn relief during pregnancy is because the baby adds on to the pressure in the stomach and therefore reduces the space for acids to pass through. This makes the acid stay even longer and therefore causes more severe heartburn.
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There are several steps that can be taken to ensure heartburn relief during pregnancy. This includes eating proper and balanced meals that do not contain too much fatty substances of those that have too much spice. Another heartburn relief technique during pregnancy is avoiding such things as caffeine, alcohol, cigarettes and chewing gum. Eating just before going to bed also increases severity of the heartburn. Other techniques used for heartburn relief during pregnancy include wearing comfortable clothes and using comfortable pillows when sleeping.
Some over the counter medications can also be used as heartburn relief during pregnancy. Other forms of heartburn relief during pregnancy involve herbal teas as well as natural methods. It is important to consult with a physician to ensure these methods are safe. All in all, most cases of heartburn disappear after the baby is born.
