HIATAL HERNIA, GERD & PREGNANCY
For women who are pregnant, heartburn is no laughing matter. It is a common and uncomfortable condition that will affect more than 50 percent of pregnant women at some point in a pregnancy1. When heartburn does occur in pregnancy, it is more likely to be felt in the later part, particularly in the second and third trimester.
During pregnancy, hormone levels change frequently, including progesterone. As the level of progesterone rises during the pregnancy, the lower esophageal sphincter, (the trap door between the stomach and the esophagus) is allowed to relax. This relaxation allows food and stomach contents that contain acid to reflux back into the esophagus, thus creating a feeling of heartburn or indigestion. In addition, the expanding uterus puts additional pressure on the stomach which can also create an environment which promotes heartburn. Together - these forces work against the pregnant woman to increase the likelihood of heartburn.
For many pregnant women, heartburn feels like a burning sensation or irritation in the chest and may also be associated with a sour or acidic taste in the mouth. Pregnancy itself is tough for many women and heartburn can only make things worse. Fortunately, effective relief is available.
Lifestyle modifications are a useful, first step in tackling pregnancy-related heartburn.
The table below describes key changes pregnant women should make:
Lifestyle modifications are a useful, first step in tackling pregnancy-related heartburn.
The table below describes key changes pregnant women should make:
Lifestyle Modification... |
...Rationale |
Eat small, frequent meals... |
...To avoid overloading your stomach and triggering heartburn |
Avoid triggers such as caffeine, carbonated beverages, chocolate, orange juice, acidic foods. Or, try using the low-acid options... |
... These trigger foods increase the acidity of the stomach and its contents. For low-acid recommendations, please click here |
Wear loose fitting pregnancy clothing... |
...To avoid additional pressure on the stomach and its contents |
Elevate the head of your bed by 4 - 6 inches by placing a brick or phone book under the supports beneath the head of the bed... |
...This will decrease likelihood of heartburn while lying down |
Avoid eating within 2 - 3 hours of bedtime... |
...As a full stomach when you lie down may increase the likelihood of heartburn |
Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol during pregnancy... |
...Not only will these decrease the risk of heartburn, they are also important recommendations for a healthy pregnancy |
Consider dairy products to relieve symptoms... |
...Milk may neutralize some of the gastric acidity. Calcium is also great for healthy bones |
Try chewing gum after meals (avoid mint/spearmint)... |
...Your saliva may help to neutralize the acidity of the stomach contents (mint and spearmint have been implicated as triggers of heartburn). |
Avoid foods which are high in fat content... |
...Fatty foods may increase the risk for heartburn |
Unfortunately, not all heartburn in pregnancy will be controlled with lifestyle modifications. There are additional safe options. As always, however, please consult your health care provider including your physician, physician assistant, nurse practitioner and pharmacist prior to trying any of these options: (Sources: Medline Plus/ Heartburn Alliance.org)
