For
some, the second trimester marks the
onset of heartburn during pregnancy;
also known as acid indigestion or
acid reflux, it is a burning sensation
that is felt at the back of the throat.
Sometimes it is accompanied by an
acid taste is felt in the mouth. It
is not harmful to the baby but quite
uncomfortable for the mother. Hormonal
and physical changes are responsible
for this. It usually occurs after
eating or at nights.
1. High levels of
progesterone relaxes the muscles,
impedes digestion and this causes
the stomach acids to flow up into
the throat and sometimes into the
mouth. The valve at the top of your
stomach is not effectively closed.
2. Your growing uterus
compounds matters by squeezing your
stomach upwards
There are things you can do about
heartburn during pregnancy..
• Eat several small portions
a day instead of three square meals
in large sizes
• Avoid spice, fizz, fried or
fatty foods, rich foods, mint foods,
processed foods and anything that
is laden with additives and preservatives.
• Cut down on caffeine
• Try ginger or mint tea; sip
cold water or milk
• Chew your food slowly and
properly; sit upright while eating
or drinking to aid in digestion
• Try not to gain too much of
weight
• Try foods that help neutralize
your stomach acids such as milk or
yoghurt or acidophilus drinks
• Give yourself 2-3 hours break
before lying down.
• Try elevating your head with
some pillows instead of lying flat
on your bed or couch
• Bend from your knees and not
the waist when you pick things up
• Wear clothes and sleepwear
that is not restrictive around the
waist
• If none of these work, ask
your doctor for a suitable antacid
that are safe during pregnancy
Tidbits
to munch on..
A myth, but some women (not from your
generation most probably), feel that
heartburn during pregnancy means that
the baby will have lots of hair. The
fact however is heartburn has much
more to do with your hormones than
baby's hair!
