Free Article: Heartburn Relief During Pregnancy

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What Can Women Do For Heartburn Relief During Pregnancy
By M. A. Fulmar

A good percentage of the population suffers from heartburn at some time. During pregnancy heartburn is common. Heartburn usually occurs when acid from the stomach and moves up in to the esophagus. This causes pain, pressure and burning. This can be extremely uncomfortable for the pregnant woman. Many women seek relief for heartburn during pregnancy.

During pregnancy the woman's body produces large quantities of the hormone progesterone. This hormone has an effect on stomach acid. It relaxes the little valve that is between the stomach and esophagus causing more reflux or acid going up into the tube. This is painful. In addition the hormone works to slow down the process of digestion.

The work of progesterone alone is a heartburn cause for women but the baby puts pressure on the stomach adding to the problem. Seeking relief for heartburn during pregnancy is a common thread.

Some Things That Help

There are some simple things that can be done for heartburn relief during pregnancy. The basic things are preventative such as not eating large meals, backing away from spicy foods or ones you know cause heart burn. Do not chew gum and especially do not smoke. It is best for heartburn relief during pregnancy to not eat closet to bed time. Wear comfortable clothing that is not tight around your belly. Other heartburn relief during pregnancy involves sleeping propped up. You may like pillows or blankets to help you sleep propped up.

There are many over the counter antacids available but it is best to talk to your doctor about which ones you can use safely or if you can use them at all. It is also advisable to ask your health care professional if you are able to use natural remedies as well such as herbal teas. Some of these will work for heartburn but may not be used while pregnant.

It is especially important to talk to your doctor if heartburn is chronic or you vomit blood. There are many treatments that are available for heartburn relief during pregnancy. Usually after the baby is born the heartburn fades. If it continues then you may have more serious heartburn that requires monitoring and treatment.

Heartburn relief during pregnancy involves gentle common sense like all other things during this wonderful period of your life. Hopefully it is temporary and a negligible side effect for the new birth you are about to experience. Look into all the available information and again speak with your healthcare specialist involving your heartburn.

Author Details:
M. A. Fulmar, copywriter for various websites including, Acid Reflux and The A to Z of.

Article Source: Top Health Articles

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See also: Acid Reflux