Getting Relief for Heartburn During Pregnancy
Tips for pregnant women who want to eliminate their heartburn symptoms
Many pregnant women experience heartburn, especially during the third trimester.
Heartburn in pregnant women is thought to be caused by the increase of hormones
in the woman's system combined with the additional pressure being put on the stomach
by the baby.
Pregnant women can reduce the amount and severity of their heartburn symptoms by
avoiding spicy foods and beverages that contain caffeine. Citrus fruits and tomatoes
should also be avoided. Since having a full stomach can aggravate the symptoms,
pregnant women are encouraged to eat five or six small meals per day instead of
three large meals.
It is also best to avoid eating within two hours of bedtime. Lying down soon after
eating aggravates heartburn symptoms. You may find that it helps to keep your head
elevated at night. Use extra pillows to prop yourself up so that your head is approximately
six to eight inches higher than your stomach. Lying on your left side may also help.
If you have tried all of these things and are still experiencing heartburn, talk
to your doctor about which medications you can take to relieve your symptoms. Most
doctors will provide a list of over-the-counter medications that are believed to
be safe to take during pregnancy.
Written by: Beth Parker
Posted: July 31, 2009