Acid reflux, or heartburn, often occurs during pregnancy. It is not associated with a heart problem. Heartburn occurs when acid from the stomach backs up into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. The acid irritates the lining of the esophagus and causes a burning sensation in the chest and upper abdomen. The muscle that controls the opening and closing of the esophagus, located just above the stomach, is called the lower esophageal sphincter. Especially during late pregnancy, when the enlarged womb presses on the stomach, the sphincter may relax and allow the stomach acid to flow backwards. Risk increases with overeating, bending over, eating just before lying down, smoking, and alcohol consumption. Certain foods may aggravate it including caffeine, chocolate, fatty foods, and peppermint. Some people think very hot or very cold beverages make heartburn worse.
Symptoms may include:
A dull ache or burning discomfort in the chest
A burning feeling in the upper abdomen and throat
An unpleasant taste in the mouth
Painful swallowing
What you can do:
Treatment is based on preventing or reducing episodes of heartburn by avoiding the behaviors and substances that can worsen it.
Most medications for heartburn should be avoided during pregnancy.
Eat several small meals a day rather than 3 larger meals.
Try not to eat within 2 hours of bedtime.
Try elevating the head of your bed about 3 to 4 inches to reduce acid backflow.
Avoid caffeine and other "trigger" foods listed above. DO NOT smoke or drink alcohol.
Wear clothing loose around the waist and avoid bending over from the waist.
What you can expect:
Although uncomfortable, it is temporary and harmless. It usually disappears after the baby is born.
Complications usually only occur with long-term heartburn. These can include severe irritation of the lower esophagus, painful swallowing, and erosion of the esophageal lining.
Contact your doctor if heartburn is not relieved with self-care, if symptoms worsen, or if symptoms continue after your baby is born.
