Indigestion, known as heartburn or acid reflux, is a common experience for many expectant mothers. It typically causes a burning sensation or pain in the chest, bloating, burping, or nausea. While these symptoms can be bothersome, they are generally a normal and temporary part of pregnancy.
Understanding Indigestion During Pregnancy
Hormonal shifts, particularly increased progesterone, cause muscles throughout the body to relax. This includes the lower esophageal sphincter, a muscular valve between the esophagus and stomach, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. As pregnancy progresses, the growing uterus places increased pressure on the stomach. This pressure can push stomach acid upward, causing discomfort. Digestion also slows during pregnancy, allowing food to remain in the stomach longer, which can worsen symptoms.
Dietary and Lifestyle Adjustments
Dietary Adjustments
Managing indigestion often begins with adjustments to daily eating habits. Eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day, rather than large, heavy ones, prevents the stomach from overfilling. Chewing food thoroughly and eating slowly also aids digestion, reducing discomfort.
Identifying and avoiding specific trigger foods is a key strategy. Common triggers include spicy, fatty, or fried foods, acidic items like citrus fruits and tomatoes. Caffeine, carbonated drinks, and chocolate can also contribute. Avoid eating within two to three hours of bedtime to allow the stomach to empty before lying down.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Lifestyle modifications also offer relief. Maintaining an upright posture during and after meals helps keep stomach contents down. Elevating the head of the bed can help prevent nighttime acid reflux. Wearing loose-fitting clothing around the abdomen can alleviate pressure on the stomach. Stay well-hydrated, but drink fluids between meals rather than during them to avoid overfilling the stomach.
Safe Over-the-Counter Options
If dietary and lifestyle adjustments don’t fully alleviate symptoms, certain over-the-counter medications can provide additional relief. Antacids, which neutralize stomach acid, are often a first-line option. Calcium carbonate-based antacids, such as Tums, are generally safe during pregnancy and can also provide a calcium boost. However, avoid antacids containing sodium bicarbonate or bismuth subsalicylate.
If antacids are not effective, a healthcare provider might recommend histamine-2 (H2) blockers. These, like famotidine (Pepcid), reduce stomach acid production. Studies suggest H2 blockers are safe in pregnancy, with no increased risk of congenital malformations. Always consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking any over-the-counter medication during pregnancy to ensure it is appropriate and safe.
Knowing When to Contact Your Doctor
While common during pregnancy, certain indigestion symptoms warrant medical attention. Contact a healthcare provider if indigestion is severe, persistent, or not relieved by dietary changes and over-the-counter remedies. Symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, a hoarse voice, or a persistent cough may also need medical evaluation.
Report any unusual or concerning symptoms alongside indigestion promptly. These include significant weight loss, vomiting blood, or black, tarry stools. Pain below the ribs resembling heartburn can signal pre-eclampsia, a serious pregnancy condition, especially if accompanied by high blood pressure, facial or hand swelling, severe headache, or vision changes.