Overcoming Gastric Acid Disorders During Pregnancy
Acid reflux during pregnancy is a common thing. This condition, which is medically known as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), occurs when stomach acid rises into the esophagus, causing a burning feeling in the chest ( heartburn). GERD can be caused by the influence of hormones during pregnancy which make your digestive system move more slowly. In addition, it can also be caused by pressure on the stomach produced by the growing uterus, especially in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
7 ways to deal with stomach acid during pregnancy
The rise of stomach acid during pregnancy, of course, makes you feel uncomfortable. However, you don’t need to worry because there are several ways to reduce it.
1. Change your eating habits
This is the best way to deal with your acid reflux. Some of the things you need to change regarding your eating habits are:
- Eat small, frequent meals.
- Eat slowly, don’t rush.
- Don’t lie down or sleep immediately after you eat. At least you have to wait 2-3 hours after eating, if you want to lie down or sleep. Give your stomach time to process the food you just ate. For that, you are not advised to eat dinner close to bedtime.
- It’s best to avoid chocolate and mint because these two foods can make your stomach acid disorder worse. Chocolate and mint can relax the muscles in the esophagus (the tube that connects the esophagus and stomach), allowing stomach acid to rise up into the esophagus.
- Also avoid spicy, sour foods and coffee. These foods can also make stomach acid disorders worse in some people. If you feel discomfort after eating these foods, you should stop eating. You can choose other foods that do not worsen your acid reflux.
- Avoid drinking too much while you eat, this will fill your stomach and make you feel uncomfortable. Drinking lots of water during pregnancy is recommended, but choose the right time, not while you eat.
- Try chewing gum after eating. Chewing gum can increase saliva production, which can help neutralize the acid that has risen into the esophagus.
2. Drink a drink that gives warmth
You may want to try drinking warm ginger water to relieve symptoms of acid reflux. Ginger can also relieve the feeling of nausea and vomiting that you usually experience during pregnancy. Or, maybe you can make a glass of warm milk or chamomile tea to make you feel more comfortable.
3. Sleep in a comfortable position
If you often experience acid reflux during pregnancy, it’s best to sleep with a pillow that is higher than usual. The position of your head and upper body that is higher than the stomach position will help keep stomach acid from rising upward. It can also help your digestive system work.
Also, you may find it more comfortable sleeping on your left side. Sleeping on your right side puts your stomach higher than your esophagus so you can feel it heartburn.
4. Keep your weight within the normal range
While pregnant, you need to increase your weight in an effort to support the health of you and the baby in the womb. However, too much weight gain during pregnancy is not good either. Too much weight during pregnancy allows you to experience stomach acid disorders during pregnancy, because the stomach is pressed by your large uterus. For that, you must maintain your body weight in order to stay within the normal range during pregnancy. Instead, consult with your doctor how much weight gain you should achieve during pregnancy.
5. Wear loose clothing
When pregnant, wear clothes that are loose and provide comfort when you wear them. Wearing tight clothing (especially around the waist and stomach) can put more pressure on your stomach, which can worsen acid reflux.
6. Use antacid drugs
Antacids are drugs commonly used to treat stomach ulcers or acid reflux. The magnesium or calcium content in antacids can relieve the discomfort you feel. However, you should be careful when choosing antacids when you are pregnant. Because, antacids that contain sodium bicarbonate can cause fluid retention or inflammation. Also, it’s best to avoid antacids that contain aluminum as they can cause constipation and can lead to poisoning at high doses. Choose an antacid medication that is not high in sodium, aluminum, or aspirin.
7. Don’t smoke
If you smoke, it’s best to stop smoking while you are pregnant. Apart from smoking being bad for you and your baby’s health during pregnancy, smoking can also increase your stomach acid.
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Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.