How to Deal with Heartburn During Pregnancy

Suffering from heartburn during pregnancy can be especially trying, especially as the pregnancy continues. Heartburn can be extremely frustrating during warm or hot weather, causing increased general discomfort. While heartburn may prove uncomfortable for expectant mothers, it will not harm the baby. Many women suffer from bouts of heartburn during the course of her entire pregnancy, but slight changes in diet, lifestyle habits and preventative maintenance may offer some relief. Dealing with the discomfort of heartburn may be accomplished by following a few simple guidelines and suggestions.

Things You'll Need

• Extra pillows
• Over-the-counter antacids if approved by your doctor

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Instructions

• 1

  Understand that heartburn during pregnancy is most often caused by a back flow of acid from the stomach into the esophagus, the tube that runs from the mouth to the stomach. Muscular openings in the top of the stomach that are normally firm and tight often loosen as hormones and the changes caused by the growing fetus interfere with normal digestive functions. Eating small, frequent meals may help to alleviate the amount of acid being churned up by the stomach. Slowing down while eating may also help to reduce symptoms.

• 2

  Know that occasional heartburn during pregnancy may be caused by eating spicy, fried or rich foods, so avoiding them is recommended.

• 3

  Avoid drinking a lot of fluids while eating meals. Excess fluids in expectant mothers may cause the increase of acid reflux leading to heartburn.

• 4

  Avoid lying down or reclining after eating.

• 5

  While sleeping or napping, place an extra pillow behind the shoulder and head area to keep the acids from rising into the chest area.