Indigestion and heartburn in pregnancy

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One of the most common, yet least discussed, ailments of pregnancy is indigestion during the third trimester. When a woman is in her third trimester, her body is going through a lot of rapid and complex changes. These changes can often lead to digestive issues, such as indigestion, heartburn, and nausea. While these symptoms are generally considered to be relatively minor and annoying, they can still be disruptive and cause discomfort. It is important for pregnant women to understand the causes and treatments of indigestion, so that they can take the necessary steps to minimize any potential discomfort. This blog post will explore the causes and treatments of indigestion during the third trimester of pregnancy, and will provide tips on how to manage and prevent any symptoms.

What kinds of things will give me heartburn?

What you eat and drink can cause heartburn, including:

  • a big meal
  • high-fat foods
  • spicy foods
  • chocolate
  • citrus fruit juices
  • drinks containing caffeine, including coffee, tea and cola
  • alcohol (which is not recommended in pregnancy)

    • Other things that may trigger heartburn include:

  • doing exercise soon after eating
  • lying down after eating
  • feeling anxious

    • It’s a good idea to keep track of the specific foods, beverages, or activities that cause you heartburn while you are pregnant because everyone differs.

    Heartburn is uncomfortable for you even though it typically won’t harm your baby.

    The health of both you and your unborn child depends on eating a balanced diet. It’s best to get treatment for heartburn if it’s making it difficult to eat a healthy diet.

    How can I avoid getting heartburn?

    If you change how you eat, you may be able to prevent heartburn if your symptoms are mild. You could try:

  • eating smaller meals more often and eating slowly
  • avoiding eating for 2 or 3 hours before exercise or going to bed
  • avoiding foods and drinks that give you heartburn
  • avoiding eating and drinking at the same time, which can make your stomach more full
  • sitting up straight while eating and not lying down after a meal
  • raising the head of your bed or sleeping on at least 2 pillows
  • sleeping on your left side

    • You might find it beneficial to chew gum, which increases saliva production, to help neutralize the stomach acid. Drinking milk can also help neutralise acid.

    Hormone changes during pregnancy may make it possible for the LES and other esophageal muscles to relax more frequently. As a result, particularly when you’re lying down or following a large meal, more acids may seep back up.

    Food passes through the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscular valve, and into the stomach during normal digestion. The esophagus is the tube between your mouth and stomach.

    Acupuncture and relaxation methods like guided imagery, yoga, or progressive muscle relaxation are examples of alternative medicine. Always check with your doctor before trying new treatments.

    Additionally, stay away from any antacids with the ingredients “aluminum hydroxide” or “aluminum carbonate” on the label. These antacids can lead to constipation.

    The LES is a portion of the passageway connecting your esophagus and stomach. It is able to open to let food through and close to prevent stomach acids from rising.

    FAQ

    What helps indigestion in third trimester?

    It can help to eat small meals often, rather than larger meals 3 times a day, and to not eat within 3 hours of going to bed at night. Cutting down on drinks containing caffeine, and foods that are rich, spicy or fatty, can also ease symptoms.

    What does indigestion feel like in 3rd trimester?

    Increased pressure placed on the stomach externally from the growing uterus, especially in the third trimester, can also worsen heartburn symptoms such as: Burning pain in the center of the chest, especially after eating. Sour or bitter taste in the mouth.

    Is indigestion common in third trimester?

    Heartburn and indigestion are more common during the third trimester because the growing uterus puts pressure on the intestines and the stomach. The pressure on the stomach may also push contents back up into the esophagus.

    What can I take for indigestion while pregnant?

    Safe Over-the-Counter Medications
    • Tums.
    • Rolaids.
    • Mylanta.
    • Tagamet, Pepcid, Prilosec, Prevacid (If no relief from Tums or Rolaids)

    Pregnancy Heartburn: Causes, Symptoms, and Foods that Help

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