Signs of Pregnancy: Heartburn

Two-thirds of all pregnant women will suffer the symptoms of heartburn, which feels like a burning sensation in the throat and chest. It usually is worse during the last trimester, when the growing uterus presses against the stomach.

  1. Cause

    • An increase of the hormone progesterone in pregnant women causes relaxing of the valve between the stomach and the esophagus. This allows food and stomach acid to back up into the esophagus and the throat.

    Treatment

    • To keep stomach acid down, eat small meals frequently throughout the day. Eat slowly, and chew your food well to ensure efficient digestion. If heartburn becomes a problem, consult a doctor or obstetrician about taking antacids.

    Posture

    • Do not lie down directly after a meal, and eat at least three hours before bed. Sleep in bed on an incline propped up with pillows; this keeps pressure off the abdomen, and gravity will help keep acid in the stomach.

    Foods

    • Avoid foods that may cause heartburn such as fried and spicy food, chocolate, tomatoes, mustard, mint products and highly-seasoned foods. Be attentive to which foods make heartburn worse and avoid them.

    Fluids

    • Drinking plenty of water throughout the day will help control the effects of heartburn. Limit caffeine, soda and other carbonated drinks, and citrus fruit juices.

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