Remedies for Heartburn in Pregnancy: 4 Tips to Manage Acidity Effectively – Explains by Expert

Pregnancy can be an exciting time in the lives of many women. Though it can be exhilarating, this 9-month journey that comes with its challenges can also feel like a rollercoaster for some. While most mums-to-be focus their energy on trying to tick all the right boxes to keep their baby healthy, it is important for them to focus on their own health too.

During this period, a woman’s body experiences various changes – from swollen ankles to morning sickness (nausea), which is experienced by almost 70 percent of the world’s pregnant women. Another common complaint during pregnancy is acid reflux or heartburn, often described as a burning sensation in the chest or when you feel full, heavy or bloated. It is seen in about 30 to 50 percent of pregnancies and affects 80 percent of women by their third trimester.

If you’re wondering why it’s common during pregnancy, experts believe there are a few possible factors — including the hormonal changes the body undergoes during this time. Increased pressure on the abdomen by the baby in the later stages of pregnancy can also be a reason. This can also happen when you ‘eat for two’, as a full stomach can make you more prone to indigestion.

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Dr Alka Jain, MBBS MS (Obs & Gynae), Sehgal Neo Hospital, New Delhi said, “Acid reflux is quite common during pregnancy. Most of the time, its symptoms are usually mild and manageable. It is useful for expectant mothers and their caregivers to understand the steps they can take to relieve these symptoms and the solutions available. Lifestyle and dietary changes along with safe and effective antacid options can help a lot. Necessary relief can be found. It is also advisable to consult a doctor if these problems are of prolonged duration or are difficult to manage.”

Here are some simple steps you can take to get relief from heartburn:

Avoid triggers: Eliminate foods that trigger acidity. These usually include fatty, fried and spicy foods, chocolate, peppermint and foods with a high acidic content (such as oranges, grapefruits, lemons and grapefruit). Also, avoid triggers such as caffeinated and carbonated beverages (such as coffee and soda). You should also stop smoking and drinking alcohol during pregnancy – not only do they cause indigestion, but they can also affect your and your unborn baby’s health.

Eat better: Eat a healthy, balanced diet and pay attention to how you feel after eating different foods so you can note any triggers. Try to eat small, frequent meals, as eating large meals can make heartburn symptoms worse. Also, make sure you sit straight while eating so that there is no extra pressure on your stomach.

Change your sleeping habits: Wait three hours to go to bed after a meal (and try not to eat too late into the night!), and avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing. Sleeping on the left side, elevating the head of your bed and avoiding change in posture can also help keep your acidity symptoms at bay. Also, since irregular sleep schedule or less sleep can trigger acidity, try to get at least six to seven hours of shut-eye every night.

Identify sources of relief. Some solutions also help in relieving heartburn. For example, antacid medications are a treatment option for acidity when symptoms are not addressed with lifestyle changes. It is always best to see your doctor if you face any symptoms of acidity.

Dr. Jejo Karankumar, Director, Medical Affairs, Abbott said, “Every woman’s pregnancy journey is different. At Abbott, we are committed to educating and empowering women to stay healthy during pregnancy. It is important to reduce the risk of acidity, such as getting rid of acid reflux problems by following general healthy lifestyle habits and using available solutions, which can provide relief from acidity symptoms.”

Dr. Jejo Karankumar, Director, Medical Affairs, Abbott said, “Every woman’s pregnancy journey is different. At Abbott, we are committed to educating and empowering women to stay healthy during pregnancy. It is important to reduce the risk of acidity, such as getting rid of acid reflux problems by following general healthy lifestyle habits and using available solutions, which can provide relief from acidity symptoms.”