Heartburn often occurs in women during pregnancy.
Reasons:
During pregnancy the levels of oestrogen and progesterone increase in your body. These hormones can help relax ligaments in joints, which is useful for enlarging the pelvis during labour. However it does mean that there may be a softening of the ligaments that usually keep your LES (lower oesophageal sphincter) closed. This can mean that stomach acid can come back up through the sphincter causing the unpleasant burning or reflux that comes with heartburn. As you baby grows there is also increased pressure in your body, decreasing the space available for the stomach and forcing the acid upward instead of staying in your stomach where it belongs and where it can aid digestion.
What can you do?
You may be able to reduce the effects of heartburn by following some of the tips below:
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Avoid foods and drinks that are particularly acidic or that have caused you any digestive issues in the past. Foods like citrus fruits, juices, tomatoes, vinegar, processed meats and really fatty or spiced foods. Caffeine are carbonated drinks may also contribute to symptoms.
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Eat smaller meals. Eat regularly and often during the day, taking time to eat slowly and chewing thoroughly. Avoid drinking large amounts of fluids, whilst making sure that you are drinking enough.
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Chewing gum can stimulate your salivary glands and the saliva can help neutralize acid.
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Try not to eat too late in the day. Allow for two to three hours before lying down.
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Sleeping propped up or with your upper body elevated may prevent your stomach acid rising.
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Stay within the recommended weight guidelines
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Avoid any tightness around your waist and stomach.
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Don’t smoke.
- Try acupuncture or herbal medicine.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture used during pregnancy and while there is heartburn aims to descend the Qi of the Stomach. Stomach Qi which is rising upwards is described as rebellious Stomach Qi as the normal direction of for the energy of the Stomach is downwards. Points to help clear heat in the Stomach would also be used. Acupressure points can be used throughout the day to help ease the symptoms.
Herbs
There are a number of herbs that are used for the treatment of heartburn, however the most potent ones should only be taken under the care of a doctor, midwife or qualified medical herbalist.
As long as you are not on any medication two herbs may reduce the burning and damage caused by heartburn, they are marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) or slippery elm (Ulmus fulva). Both of these herbs coat the oesophagus and stomach with a cooling slimy liquid, when taken with water. ‘Slime’ tastes better than it sounds when you are suffering from heartburn, it cools the area it coats, and these two herbs also help to heal under the area it has coated.
Women find these herbs can help instantly, used over a while they may have long term beneficial effects.
If the hearburn is very troublesome a medical herbalist may be able to advise on stronger herbs.