Acid Reflux / Heartburn ─ Symptoms of Pregnancy
Acid Reflux / Heartburn Symptom Overview
Acid Reflux / Heartburn is characterized by a painful burning sensation in the esophagus and stomach. The burning sensation often rises in your chest and may be accompanied by burping, bloating, nausea and abdominal discomfort. At times you may bring up some stomach acid into your mouth. In most cases, lying down can intensify the Discomfort and should be avoided.
Acid Reflux and Heartburn brought on by progesterone, a hormone that slows the digestive track and relaxes the valve separating the esophagus from the stomach. This phenomenon allows and acids to come back up from the stomach. As your baby grows bigger, the uterus pushes on the stomach, making this symptom more common later in pregnancy.
How to Alleviate Acid Reflux / Heartburn During Pregnancy
- Do not lie down after meals.
- Have some calcium or drink some milk to help neutralize the stomach acid.
- Sleep propped up with pillows.
- Do not eat greasy foods.
- Have 6 smaller meals each day, rather than 3 large ones.
- Drink fluids between meals, not with them.