Reflux During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, many changes occur in the body. These changes may cause some discomfort and sometimes certain health problems. A health conditions that women may develop due to pregnancy is acid reflux. Let's talk about acid reflux and pregnancy.

Is this acid reflux during pregnancy Normal?

Acid reflux is actually common among pregnant women. In fact, one quarter of symptoms associated with the experience of pregnant women with acid reflux, like heartburn, throughout their pregnancy. The condition is also seen as a side effect of pregnancy and affects one third of all pregnant women. The good news is, acid reflux is usually disappear after pregnancy. If this does not happen in your case, if there is always an available treatment after a correct diagnosis.

Why do pregnant women have acid reflux?

There are a number of reasons why there is a link between acid reflux and pregnancy. The three main reasons for acid reflux during pregnancy are hormones, weight gain and pressure.

- Hormones - in the body of a pregnant woman tends to rise dramatically. When this occurs, more acid is produced in the stomach, causing acid reflux. Estrogen and progesterone can cause constipation and slow digestion, which can aggravate the symptoms of acid reflux. In addition, these hormones may also weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, making it easier for stomach acid into the esophagus.

- Weight gain caused by pregnancy may help hiatial hernia, a condition in which part of the stomach extends beyond the diaphragm. Accordingly, the acid tends to reach the esophagus.

- Pressure - built inside the stomach as the baby grows. Consequently, food is sometimes pushed through the diaphragm with gastric acid. Thus, acid reflux occurs.

What are the symptoms of acid reflux in pregnant women?

Nausea and vomiting - During the first trimester of pregnancy, women often feel like vomiting or nausea. For other women, these symptoms can last up to nine months. These symptoms are mainly caused by rising levels of hormones in the body of the pregnant woman. Those worst case of acid reflux may suffer from malnutrition. Pregnant women who had acid reflux before pregnancy are more likely to have worst case of reflux compared to those who have never had the condition before.

What treatments are available?

Antacids - If medications are needed, a doctor may prescribe antacids and H2 antagonists. These drugs act primarily to neutralize the acid levels in the stomach and reduce discomfort. However, there are other types of treatment that can be applied during pregnancy. These include changes in lifestyle as having a special diet, the elevation of the head during sleep, and enjoy your stay.

Challenge Treatment - Treatment for acid reflux during pregnancy is often more difficult because most drugs are not recommended for pregnant women. The well-being of the mother and unborn child is often the focus when doctors recommend medication. In addition, drug interactions may occur if the pregnant woman is already taking other medicines. Treatment for acid reflux and pregnancy is either a good or a bad combination. Therefore you should always discuss with your doctor for appropriate treatment for you.