Pregnancy is a special period in women’s lives when many physical and hormonal changes occur. One of the problems frequently encountered during this period is heartburn. Heartburn is an uncomfortable condition experienced by approximately 50-80 percent of pregnant women. Heartburn complaints increase due to hormonal changes and the pressure of the growing uterus on the stomach. Fortunately, a variety of methods and lifestyle changes are available to relieve heartburn during pregnancy.
The most common cause of heartburn during pregnancy is increased levels of the hormone progesterone. Progesterone causes the muscles between the esophagus and stomach to relax, allowing stomach acid to leak back into the esophagus. Additionally, the growing uterus puts pressure on the stomach, making it easier for stomach acid to escape into the esophagus.
The first step to relieving heartburn is to review your eating habits. Eating small and frequent meals can help prevent heartburn. Eating smaller portions and at more frequent intervals instead of large meals helps keep stomach acid balanced. Also, not eating before bed is an effective way to prevent heartburn. Stopping eating at least 2-3 hours before bedtime reduces the risk of stomach acid leaking into the esophagus.
It is also important to determine which foods cause heartburn. Spicy, fatty and acidic foods, chocolate, caffeinated drinks and citrus products can trigger heartburn. It is possible to reduce heartburn complaints by avoiding such foods. Instead, stomach-soothing foods such as bananas, oatmeal, and boiled potatoes can be preferred.
Paying attention to fluid intake also plays an important role in relieving heartburn. Instead of drinking large amounts of water with meals, it is more effective to consume water between meals. It may also be helpful to avoid carbonated drinks and choose stomach-soothing drinks such as herbal teas.
To relieve heartburn during pregnancy, it is necessary to pay attention to sleep patterns. Sleeping in a position with the head and torso slightly elevated can prevent stomach acid from backing up into the esophagus. Extra pillows can be used to raise the head of the bed, or raising the head of the bed by 10-15 cm is useful.
Clothing choice can also affect heartburn. Tight and tight clothing puts pressure on the abdominal area, making it easier for stomach acid to escape into the esophagus. Therefore, it is important to wear loose and comfortable clothes during pregnancy.
In some cases, lifestyle changes may not be sufficient and antacid medications can be used with the recommendation of a doctor. However, a doctor should be consulted before using any medication. Antacid medications can relieve heartburn by neutralizing stomach acid, but medical supervision is essential regarding the safety of medication use during pregnancy.
In conclusion, although heartburn is a common problem during pregnancy, it can be alleviated with simple lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments. Eating small and frequent meals, not eating before going to bed, choosing foods that soothe the stomach, and paying attention to sleep patterns are effective methods to prevent heartburn. It is important for pregnant women to pay attention to these recommendations so that they can go through this period more comfortably.
