Baby on Board, Heartburn at Bay: Strategies for a Happier, Healthier Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a beautiful experience, but it can also bring discomfort at the same time. One of the most common problems faced by pregnant women is heartburn. A burning sensation in the chest and throat can be quite uncomfortable and painful, especially at night or after meals. Heartburn during pregnancy is a frequent problem that affects many pregnant women.

What causes heartburn during pregnancy?

1. Hormonal changes
Increased levels of hormones, especially progesterone, relax the muscles of the digestive tract, including the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This relaxation allows stomach acid to back up into the esophagus, causing heartburn.

2. Increased pressure on the abdomen
As pregnancy progresses, the growing uterus puts pressure on the stomach, which pushes stomach acid up into the esophagus. This pressure contributes to the development of heartburn symptoms.

3. Decreased gastric emptying
Pregnancy hormones can also slow the rate at which the stomach empties its contents. This delay in gastric emptying can result in increased acid production and prolonged exposure of the esophagus to stomach acid, leading to heartburn.

4. Dietary factors
Certain foods and drinks can trigger or worsen heartburn during pregnancy. These include spicy, fatty or fried foods, citrus fruits, chocolate, caffeine, carbonated drinks and acidic foods.

5. Physical changes
As the baby grows, the expanding uterus pushes the stomach upward, increasing the likelihood of acid reflux and heartburn.