Some of the most pesky pregnancy symptoms are the symptoms of acid reflux. Pregnancy is known to be one of the risk factors for gastroesophageal reflux disease or simply, acid reflux. There are certain changes during pregnancy that predispose an expectant mom to acid reflux. The increase in the levels of the hormone called progesterone causes a relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter or LES. The LES is the muscle that prevents stomach fluids and contents from going back up to the esophagus. As pregnancy progresses and the fetus grows bigger, the expanding uterus exerts pressure on the stomach, thus increasing the chances of reflux. The signs and symptoms of acid reflux in pregnancy are the sensation of food stuck behind your chest, heartburn or burning sensation felt in your chest or in your throat, regurgitation, excessive burping, and nausea after eating. These symptoms may be aggravated by bending or stooping, tight clothing, lying on your back, and eating a big meal. The symptoms may also become worse at night.
Fortunately for mommies-to-be, there is no need to suffer acid reflux symptoms all throughout pregnancy. There are simple and effective ways of avoiding the bothersome symptoms. First, consider switching to an acid reflux diet. This means avoiding all food and drinks that cause acid reflux. The common culprits are: carbonated beverages, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks (which are not allowed in pregnant women anyway), spicy and fatty food, citrus fruits, chocolates, tomatoes, mustard, mint, and garlic and onions. Also, take note of some medications which have also been known to worsen acid reflux such as those for high blood pressure and asthma. It would be best to check with your obstetrician before taking any medications.
Another way to avoid acid reflux symptoms is to have small, frequent feedings. This means that instead of eating three heavy meals in a day, you would do better to eat five to six small meals spread throughout the day. Remember though that you should allow a three-hour interval between dinner and bedtime because eating close to your bedtime will also worsen your symptoms. Other ways of preventing the symptoms are wearing loose-fitting, comfortable clothes (ditch the belts for now), propping yourself up with pillows when you sleep, and avoiding excessive weight gain.
It is shocking to note that many women receiving one of the various available models of mesh in their