Top Remedies For Heartburn During Pregnancy

Many women have complained about heartburn during their pregnancy. Although heartburn or acid reflux may not always be harmful, it can easily make a woman uncomfortable. Heartburn is a burning sensation which may be caused due to hormonal and physical changes while a woman is expecting.

When the woman is pregnant, progesterone is produced in the placenta. Main function of progesterone is to relax the muscles in uterus. It also makes the digestion process to slow down by slowing the contractions of intestines and esophagus.

On the other hand, it also relaxes the valve in between the stomach and the esophagus. This valve restricts the acids from refluxing back but in this case the gastric acids flow backwards into the esophagus. This burning sensation makes the woman uncomfortable.

One may take the following steps to ease the heartburn:

• Wear comfort clothing. Loose clothes which allow space to waistline and stomach can ease the pressure.
• Chewing gum is known to stimulate the salivary glands which produces excess amount of saliva. This can help in neutralizing the acid that has refluxed.
• Food and beverages should be consumed in moderation. Alcohol, carbonated drinks chocolates, caffeine, tomatoes, citric, spicy and fatty foods should be avoided as far as possible. 
• Heavy meals can cause distress. One can eat small quantities of meals instead of a full meal to ease the pressure on the stomach. Standing or sitting after meals is important. 
• Also, sleeping immediately after meals should be avoided. While sleeping, elevating the chest and head can naturally help.
• Smoking during pregnancy can cause heartburn. Apart from a number of other health concerns, smoking can add to acidity.  Quitting smoking may not only ease heartburn sensation but also be helpful for the growth of the baby.
• Knowing the heartburn triggers may also help.
• While bending, pregnant woman should try to bend from the knees instead of the waist.  
• Almonds, coconut water, slippery elm, ginger tea, slippery elm herbs may also be taken under the advice of the doctor.

Doctors may prescribe heartburn medications such as antacids or proton pump inhibitors including Nexium to treat heartburn. You can visit PlanetDrugsDirect to get these drugs online and for more information about heartburn. And although these medicines may not harm the baby, it is important to inform the doctor about pregnancy to avoid any adverse side effects.