Lots of expectant mothers suffer from acid reflux and heartburn. This is because muscles that we cannot consciously control, relax slightly during pregnancy. The valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach and stops gastric acid from seeping back up the throat is one such muscle. To prevent or relieve heartburn, avoid very fatty, spicy or smoked foods. You can also try to cut back on coffee and eat smaller meals more often. Avoid lying down or bending over straight after eating.
You can also find over-the-counter drugs that may help. Talk to your health care provider about which antacids are suitable for expectant mothers.
Source:
- Lärobok för barnmorskor. Faxelid, E. Course literature 2001.
- Myles Textbook for Midwives. Fraser, D. och Cooper, M. Churchill Livingstone 2003.