Recognize the Causes and Ways to Overcome Heartburn During Pregnancy

Heartburn during pregnancy often occurs and can be influenced by various things. For this reason, it is important to know the causes and the right way to overcome them, so as to avoid complaints and the disturbance they cause. Symptoms of heartburn during pregnancy are fairly diverse. Among these are complaints of bloating, heartburn, stomach feeling full even though only eat a little, pain in the solar plexus to the area around the chest, often belching, nausea, and vomiting. Experiencing these complaints will certainly feel very disturbing, especially for pregnant women.

Various Causes of Heartburn During Pregnancy

Heartburn during pregnancy can be caused by:

• Hormonal changes

Various hormonal changes occur in pregnant women, one of which is an increase in the level of the hormone progesterone. High levels of this hormone can trigger an increase in stomach acid during pregnancy. This also causes the body's muscles to become more relaxed, so the digestive system tends to work more slowly. This is what makes stomach ulcers possible during pregnancy.

• Fetal growth

Increasing the size of the fetus in the stomach can cause stomach ulcers during pregnancy, because the fetus compresses the area around the stomach, makes it easier for stomach acid to go up to the throat, and cause complaints.

Overcoming Heartburn When Pregnant at Home

Lifestyle changes are the first step that can be done to overcome heartburn during pregnancy. This can be done by:

• Pay attention to the food consumed

To prevent heartburn from worsening, it is advisable to pay attention to the food and drinks consumed. It's best to avoid fatty foods, spicy and overly acidic foods, alcoholic drinks, and caffeinated beverages, such as coffee, tea, and soda.

• Quit smoking

For smokers, it is recommended to stop smoking during pregnancy. Because in addition to causing an increase in stomach acid, smoking can also endanger the health of the fetus. Babies of mothers who smoke will be at risk of being born with low weight, premature birth, birth defects, and miscarriage.

• Adjust your sleeping position properly

If heartburn often recurs at night, it is advisable to lie down with a head position higher about 10-15 cm. You can use several pillows to prop up. Make sure to stay comfortable and not too tall.

• Sit properly

If pregnant women are accustomed to sitting in a leaning or bending position while eating, it is better to stop this habit. Because sitting position like this can facilitate the increase in stomach acid. Eat in an upright sitting position.

• Change eating habits

During pregnancy, it is recommended to change previous eating habits. It is recommended to eat small portions but often. After eating, don't go to sleep right away. Give a break of three hours between mealtime and bedtime.

If lifestyle changes have been made but heartburn during pregnancy does not improve, consult a doctor immediately. In this condition, the doctor can give medicines to relieve heartburn symptoms that are safe for pregnant women.