Acidity and heartburn in pregnancy

The feeling of carrying another life in your belly is the most beautiful feeling in the world. However, the story of creation is not as rosy or comfortable as it sounds. It has its own set of difficult issues to negotiate with.

Some mothers have an easy pregnancy while for some it can be tough. Acidity and heartburn are common issues faced by most to-be moms. Although acidity and heartburn do not lead to any complication, they are uncomfortable and irritating. Here are the reasons that cause acidity and heartburn and few tips which will help you get relief.

Causes of Acidity and Heartburn

Heartburn is caused by the hormone progesterone. In the initial months of pregnancy, the uterine muscles relax to make space for your baby. This loosens the valve between the esophagus and the stomach. In the last months of pregnancy, your baby grows in size and pushes your digestive organ towards the esophagus, thus causing heartburn.

Acidity vs. heartburn

Acidity is caused when acid produced by your gastric glands is way above the optimal level. Acidity feels like a burning sensation after having meals. People suffering from it can also have constipation and indigestion.

Heartburn is a burning sensation in the lower part of the chest. It is caused when the stomach contents are pushed back into the esophagus. 

How to Avoid Acidity and Heartburn

As they say, "Prevention is better than cure." If you have a persistent problem of acidity and heartburn during pregnancy, consult your doctor. Besides taking medicines, you can avoid foods which lead to acidity and heartburn. Chocolate, coffee, tea, soda, citrus, ketchup, spicy and fried food can trigger heartburn and acidity.

Relief from Heartburn and Acidity

There are few ways by which you can minimize the effect of heartburn and acidity during pregnancy:

1. Drink lot of water. Sip liquid between meals rather than during meals.
2. Eat small but frequent meals.
3. Enjoy your meal. Do not gulp your food; relax and take your time to bottle down the food.
4. Do not lie down right after having your meal. Walk around, sit down or stand for a while.
5. Have your meal at least 3 hours before going to bed. Also, try and avoid liquid just before bedtime.
6. Keep your upper body slightly elevated while sleeping.
7. Avoid wearing tight-fitted clothes during pregnancy. Opt for maternity wear.
8. Ginger candies can help combat heartburn, nausea and vomiting.
9. You can consume antacids, which are rich in calcium or magnesium.

Eat right, sleep tight and enjoy the journey as the countdown to the joyous moment begins.