Indigestion in Women

Indigestion occurs when excess acid is produced in the stomach and then leaks into the esophagus. This is also known as acid reflux or heartburn. Both men and women are affected by indigestion, but there are a few more considerations for women with this condition.

Weight Gain

• Weight gain in women is associated with a higher incidence of indigestion.

Pregnancy

• Nearly half of pregnant women experience heartburn to some degree. This is due to the uterus expanding and pushing upwards on the stomach, which causes reflux of the stomach contents into the esophagus.

Symptoms

• Indigestion symptoms that mimic cardiac conditions are more frequently ignored in women, because of a perceived lesser risk of heart disease.

Birth Control Pills

• Birth control pills a woman takes can cause indigestion.

Brittle Bone Disease

• Some indigestion medications can contribute to a higher risk of brittle bone disease, which predominantly affects women.