Heartburn during pregnancy

A common pregnancy complaint

Welcome to Midwives PuurBegin in Kampen we are here to help you with everything about your pregnancy and today we are talking about heartburn. You may already feel that annoying, burning feeling in your chest – it is one of the things that often happens when you are pregnant. It is very normal, you know – about 70% of pregnant women suffer from it. We understand that it can make you feel insecure, so we will explain what it is and what you can do about it. Don't worry, you are not alone.

What exactly is heartburn?

Heartburn, or heartburn, is a burning or painful sensation in your chest caused by stomach acid flowing back up into your esophagus. Your stomach produces acid to help digest your food, and normally you have a muscle that separates your stomach from your esophagus. During pregnancy, that muscle can become weak, allowing acid to escape and come back up. This is what causes that annoying burning sensation.

Why do you get it during pregnancy?

There are a couple of reasons why heartburn is so common in pregnant women. First, you hormones change. Progestin, a hormone that maintains your pregnancy, relaxes your muscles, including your stomach sphincter. This can make it easier for stomach acid to flow back.

Secondly, your belly is growing as your baby grows. That growing belly is pressing on your stomach, which can lead to more stomach acid and more chances of reflux.

In summary, the combination of hormonal changes and the physical changes in your body make heartburn a frequent problem during pregnancy.

When do you notice heartburn most?

Heartburn can occur at any time during your pregnancy, but it is often worse in the second and third trimester, if your belly is bigger. You can feel it after a meal, when you lie down, or when you bend over. Sometimes it can disturb your sleep at night.

What are the symptoms?

The main symptoms of heartburn are a burning or painful sensation in your chest, just below your breastbone. You may get a sour taste in your mouth, or develop a cough. Sometimes you may have difficulty swallowing or feel bloated after eating.

What can make heartburn worse?

There are certain things that can make heartburn worse. For example:

• Fatty or spicy food
• Coffee, tea or alcohol
• Big meals
• Lying down or bending over right after eating
• Tight clothing that compresses your stomach

It's helpful to know what your triggers are so you can avoid them.

How can you soothe it with food?

There are a couple of tips to reduce heartburn by adjusting your eating habits.

1. Eat smaller portions, more often during the day. This ensures that your stomach does not get too full.
2. Choose light, easily digestible foods, such as whole wheat bread, potatoes and cooked vegetables.
3. Avoid fatty, spicy and acidic foods, such as French fries, spicy sauces, citrus fruits and tomato products.
4. Drink water in between meals, but not too much with your meal, as this can make your stomach too full.
5. Chew your food thoroughly to aid your digestion.

Which postures help with heartburn?

Your posture can also play a role in managing heartburn.

• Sit upright after eating, for at least half an hour.
• Sleep with your head slightly elevated by using an extra pillow.
• Sleep on your left side, as this can position the stomach better.
• Avoid bending over or lying down immediately after a meal.

Are there any other tips that help?

Absolutely! Here are some more tips:

• Take a sip of milk or a bite of yogurt drink to neutralize the acid.
• Wear loose clothing, be comfortable.
• Take a rest after eating, for example by walking or sitting for a while.
• Some women find that chewing ginger or anise helps.

Are there any medications that help?

Yes, there are medications that help with heartburn, such as antacids. However, it is very important to talk to your midwife or doctor before taking anything, as not all medications are safe to take during pregnancy. We at Midwives PuurBegin in Kampen can advise you on what is safe.

When does it get less?

Fortunately, heartburn often goes away after you give birth, as your belly goes back to normal and your hormones return to normal. It may take a while, but you should generally feel better after your baby is born.

When do you call us about heartburn?

Most of the time, heartburn is nothing to worry about, but sometimes it can be a sign of something else. Call us if:

• The burning sensation is very painful or persistent.
• You have difficulty swallowing or eating.
• You have a fever or nausea.
• You are concerned about your symptoms.

At Verloskundigen PuurBegin in Kampen we are here day and night to help you. Better an extra check than unnecessary stress.

Your pregnancy with less stomach acid

To summarize: heartburn is a normal occurrence during pregnancy, caused by hormonal changes and the growing belly. With some adjustments to your diet and lifestyle, you can make it more bearable. It will go away after your delivery. We at Verloskundigen PuurBegin in Kampen are happy to help you with advice and support. If you have any questions, please call us.

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Take care of yourself and your little one!

With kind regards,

Midwives PuurBegin
Address:  Orkestlaan 148, 8265RC Kampen
Telephone: 085 40 19 095