Heartburn and Indigestion During Pregnancy : Causes & Treatment

Heartburn, that fiery feeling in your chest, has nothing to do with your heart. Heartburn and indigestion are very common discomforts experienced by many pregnant women, affecting up to 80% of individuals during their pregnancy. These uncomfortable sensations can significantly impact daily life and the quality of sleep. Understanding the causes, risk factors, and effective relief strategies can help expecting mothers manage these symptoms and enjoy a more comfortable pregnancy. Let's explore what causes heartburn during pregnancy and how to find relief.

What are Heartburn and Indigestion?

• Heartburn: A fiery chest discomfort arises when the stomach's acid flows back up into the esophagus, the passageway linking the mouth to the stomach. The esophagus is not designed to withstand the stomach's acidic environment, leading to irritation and pain.
• Indigestion: A comprehensive term for a range of upper abdominal symptoms that can occur after eating, including heartburn, nausea, vomiting, bloating, and belching, providing a complete picture of the condition.

Causes of Heartburn and Indigestion in Pregnancy

• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal shifts during pregnancy, especially the rise in progesterone, lead to muscle relaxation throughout the body, notably affecting the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES acts as a valve at the bottom of the esophagus, preventing stomach acid from flowing back up. When relaxed due to hormonal influence, the LES becomes less effective, allowing stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus and causing heartburn.
• Increased Abdominal Pressure: As the uterus grows throughout pregnancy, it puts more pressure on the abdomen, including the stomach. This increased pressure can crowd the stomach and push stomach acid upwards into the esophagus, contributing to heartburn and indigestion.
• Changes in Stomach Emptying: Pregnancy can lead to a decrease in the speed of digestion, which results in food staying in the stomach for an extended duration. This delayed emptying can lead to increased stomach acid production and contribute to heartburn and indigestion.
• Certain Foods and Drinks: Certain dietary choices can aggravate the stomach and intensify heartburn and indigestion. These include spicy, fatty, acidic foods (such as citrus fruits and tomatoes), chocolate, caffeine, and carbonated beverages.

Risk Factors for Heartburn and Indigestion in Pregnancy

• Being Overweight or Obese: Obesity creates additional pressure on the abdomen, further increasing pressure on the stomach and promoting reflux.
• History of Heartburn or Indigestion: Individuals with a history of heartburn or indigestion before pregnancy are more likely to experience it during pregnancy due to underlying susceptibility.
• Hiatal Hernia: This occurs when part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm, weakening the LES and making it more susceptible to reflux.

Effective Relief Strategies for Heartburn and Indigestion

Lifestyle Changes

• Smaller, More Frequent Meals: Opt for several smaller meals spaced throughout the day instead of three large ones. This reduces the amount of food in the stomach at once, minimizing pressure and reflux.
• Chewing Thoroughly: Take your time and chew your food thoroughly before swallowing.
• Avoid Eating Close to Bedtime: Allow 2-3 hours between your last meal or snack and bedtime for proper digestion before lying down.
• Elevate Your Upper Body While Sleeping: To keep your upper body elevated, prop yourself up with pillows or wedges while sleeping.
• Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing: Wearing restrictive clothing can exacerbate symptoms by putting undue pressure on the stomach. Choose comfortable, loose-fitting attire that allows for ease of movement and breathing.
• Avoid Lying on Your Right Side: Sleeping on your right side can worsen heartburn symptoms. Try sleeping on your left side or your back instead.

Dietary Changes

• Identify and Avoid Trigger Foods: Consider foods and drinks that trigger your heartburn and indigestion symptoms. Once identified, avoid or limit your intake of these triggers.
• Bland Diet: Opt for a bland diet low in acidic, spicy, fatty, and fried foods as they irritate the stomach lining and exacerbate symptoms.
• Limit Caffeine and Carbonated Beverages: Caffeine and carbonated beverages can relax the LES and worsen heartburn.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help dilute stomach acid and reduce heartburn symptoms.

Medications

• Over-the-counter Antacids: Antacids can offer temporary relief from heartburn by neutralizing stomach acid. However, consult your doctor before taking any medications, including antacids, to ensure they are safe during pregnancy.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience severe or persistent heartburn or indigestion that does not respond to lifestyle changes or over-the-counter medications, consult your doctor. They can assess your individual situation and recommend appropriate treatment options, including prescription medications if necessary. These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), requiring further evaluation and management. Additionally, seek medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Heartburn that wakes you up at night
• Heartburn that returns frequently throughout the day
• Difficulty swallowing
• Coughing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Black stools

Sterling Hospital is Your Partner in Health Across Gujarat

At Sterling Hospital, we provide you with the utmost care and comfort throughout your journey to a healthier and brighter life. We've got you if you are looking for the best Gynaecologist in Ahmedabad-Gurukul, Ahmedabad-Sindhu Bhavan, Vadodara-Bhayli, Vadodara-Race Course Road, or Rajkot. With considerable years of experience, we have built a team of the best gastrologists and best gynecologists in these regions to provide you with premium treatment and the best results. Contact Sterling Hospital to schedule a consultation and embark on a journey towards a healthier future.