He heartburn It is a very common symptom during pregnancy, mainly in the second and third trimesters. The more precise medical term is heartburn, a burning sensation in the upper part of the digestive system that reaches as far as the pharynx.
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According to him Dr. Miguel Angel Jimenez, Head of the Gynecology and Obstetrics service at Hospital Universitari Sagrat Cor, the worldwide incidence of gastroesophageal reflux is estimated at between 17 and 80%, a high prevalence, although many patients present mild and infrequent symptoms.
The doctor explains that “heartburn is due to an increase in the levels of the hormone progesterone that causes relaxation of the esophageal sphincter muscles, causing stomach acid to return to the pharynx and slow down gastric emptying.”
It can also appear due to mechanical pressure, more frequently during the last months of pregnancy, when the size of the baby compresses organs such as the bladder, intestines and, of course, the stomach.
Symptoms
The symptoms of heartburn in pregnancy are very annoying, frequent, intense and, although they are not usually dangerous, affect quality of life of the pregnant women
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Problems digesting food.
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Sore throat.
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Excessive production of saliva.
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Chest pain due to burning.
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Sensation of ‘fire’ in the pit of the stomach.
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Acid or bitter taste in the mouth.
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Feeling of fatigue or nausea.
How can it be prevented?
- Split food and take it more frequently: Ingest small amounts and distribute them throughout the day, with an approximate frequency of two hours. This will reduce heartburn and the feeling of vomiting.
- Increase water intake: Although it is advisable not to drink during the meal, it is beneficial to do so during the day. It is advisable to drink fluids between meals.
- Try not to eat irritating foods: Coffee, tea, mint infusions, chocolate, very fatty products, carbonated drinks and highly seasoned foods.
- Do not lie down after eating: It is better to remain bent over or sitting after meals so that there is no reflux.
- Avoid wearing tight clothing in the abdomen area.
- Sleep with your head elevated: Try to sleep flat, as this will prevent reflux during the night.
- Follow a diet rich in fiber to minimize the risk of constipation, which is a cause of heartburn during pregnancy.
Ways to relieve symptoms
There are also several ways to calm the symptoms. He Dr. Jimenez recommends the following habits to carry, heartburn in pregnancy, in the best way.
The fresh fruits and vegetables, Like bananas, they will help you alleviate all the symptoms of heartburn.
Massage the belly. Small massages on the abdomen will make you relax and, therefore, decrease acidity. Many times heartburn is closely related to stress, so the more relaxed you are, the better.
Not getting enough rest or sleeping poorly can cause heartburn to persist or become more bothersome. It is important rest often, especially if the gestation stage is advanced.
If, even after following the advice mentioned above, heartburn persists, it is essential to consult your gynecologist to advise a specific solution.
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