Pregnancy and Acid Reflux

A woman's body goes though many changes during a pregnancy. While this is a very exciting time, there are issues, including acid reflux, that can make it difficult to enjoy all aspects of it. There is an old wive's tale that says a pregnant woman with acid reflux will have a baby with a full head of hair. However, the truth of it is that acid reflux is the result of changes in the body due to additional hormones.

These hormones can result in a woman producing more acid in her stomach. Since it isn't unusual for pregnant women to eat more than before, they will continue to produce even more of it. The combination of this can result in some of the acid moving up into the esophagus. Up to 80% of all pregnant women have to deal with acid reflux each day of their pregnancy. This can make it hard for them to focus on their daily routine or to get enough sleep at night.

As the pregnancy progresses there is more pressure on the stomach area. This too can result in more acid moving into the esophagus. That is why most women find that they suffer from acid reflux during the final trimester of their maternity. Since what the woman consumes affects her baby, there are limits on what should be in her diet. Most types of prescription medicines for acid reflux won't be a good plan.

It is allowable to take antacids to treat mild cases of acid reflux during pregnancy. Extensive research has shown that they don't harm the baby. Pregnant women do need to be careful though as antacids contain large amounts of sodium. This can result in fluids being retained which leads to swelling in the legs and ankles.

Every woman wants her baby to be as healthy as possible and that is understandable. That is why natural ways to alleviate acid reflux during the pregnancy are important. While consuming plenty of fresh fruits seems a good idea, it can lead to an increase in risk of acid reflux. Avoid those that contain large amounts of acid. They include oranges, lemons, and grapefruit.

It is best to eat six small meals each day so that you aren't hungry. Your body will be able to digest these smaller meals easier than large ones. Drink large amounts of water during the day too so that you stay hydrated. Liquids definitely help the body to be able to digest foods easier. Avoid eating in the last hours before you go to bed at night, or you may end up suffering throughout the night with acid reflux.

Raise your head and shoulders when you sleep as well. This will help to keep the acid from going into the esophagus at night, or when you rest during the day. There are special pillows for this, or you can just stack two of them. You can also have someone elevate the head of your bed with boards or bricks for you. Adding several inches will definitely make a significant difference.

Try to lie on your left side as this will help to get the acid reduced in your stomach. When you lie on your right side or your back it is going to increase. It may not always be comfortable during a pregnancy to lie on your left side, but do your very best to get into that routine. It will certainly help you to avoid suffering.

Observing such guidelines will help you offset acid reflux during pregnancy. This is a great time for a mom to be so keep those negative aspects of it away. Getting enough sleep is important as well because soon you will have a baby up all night. If you continue to suffer from acid reflux on a regular basis during your pregnancy, make sure you share this information with your health professional.

Pregnancy and Acid Reflux

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