Gastroesophageal Reflux During Pregnancy

What is GERD?

GERD is the result of stomach acid irritating the esophagus lining due to its upward flow from the stomach. This irritation manifests as a burning sensation in the upper abdomen or beneath the breastbone.
At the lower end of the esophagus, there is a natural ring-like muscle, which opens to allow food and liquids to pass into the stomach and then closes again. In cases where this ring does not close tightly enough or opens too frequently, stomach acid can enter the esophagus, causing a burning sensation.

What Are the Symptoms of GERD?

• Burning sensation in the chest, behind the breastbone, occurring after meals and lasting from a few seconds to hours.
• Chest pain, especially when bending over, lying down, or eating. It is crucial to seek medical attention for any chest pain.
• Burning sensation in the throat or a taste of warmth, acidity, or saltiness at the base of the throat.
• Difficulty swallowing.
• The feeling of food getting stuck in the chest or throat.
• Regurgitation, especially after eating.
• Throat pain, sometimes occurring after eating, but often characterized as chronic throat pain (without other symptoms like a runny nose, cough, fever, etc.).
• Nausea, especially after eating, without other symptoms.
• Increased production of saliva.
• Difficulty eating and drinking together.

GERD and Pregnancy

More than half of pregnant women report experiencing GERD symptoms, particularly toward the middle and end of their pregnancy. Excess weight and the pressure exerted by the growing baby can contribute to GERD during pregnancy. Additionally, fluctuations in hormone levels during pregnancy can affect the digestive system muscles and reactions to various foods. The good news is that in most cases, GERD subsides shortly after giving birth.

Here are some tips to alleviate your GERD:

• Sleep with an Incline: Elevating the head of your bed or using supportive pillows beneath your head and upper body while sleeping can help prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
• Sleep on Your Left Side: Sleeping on your left side can aid in reducing GERD symptoms.
• Early Dining: Try to finish eating at least two to three hours before bedtime to reduce nighttime symptoms.
• Watch Your Diet: Certain foods like chocolate, citrus fruits, onions, carbonated drinks, coffee, fried foods, and spicy foods are known triggers for GERD. Reducing or avoiding these foods can help.
• Physical Activity - Yes. Before Bedtime - Not Recommended: Vigorous physical exertion before bedtime can lead to GERD, and it is advisable to perform it earlier in the day. On the contrary, moderate activity after dinner, such as walking, helps with digestion and prevents nighttime GERD.
• Eat Smaller, Frequent Meals: Consuming smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones can prevent excessive stomach pressure and reduce symptoms.
• Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol is a known trigger for GERD and should be avoided during pregnancy.
• Manage Weight Gain: While weight gain is a natural part of pregnancy, maintaining a healthy diet and moderate physical activity can help manage excessive weight gain, reducing the pressure on the upper stomach.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking weakens the lower esophageal sphincter, contributing to GERD.
• Quitting smoking is essential for both your health and the health of your baby.
• Identify Trigger Foods: Keep a food diary to identify which foods trigger your GERD symptoms. This will help you avoid them more effectively.
• Wear Loose Clothing: Choose loose-fitting clothing that does not put pressure on your abdomen.
• Bend over with your knees: Bending at the waist can increase abdominal pressure and contribute to GERD. Instead, try to bend at the knees when picking up objects.
• Chew Gum: Chewing sugarless gum for about 30 minutes after meals can stimulate saliva production, which helps neutralize stomach acid.
• Purchase medications: There are many medications available that neutralize stomach acids. Consult a doctor or pharmacist for recommendations on antacids suitable for pregnancy.
• Aloe Vera Juice: Aloe vera juice can help alleviate GERD symptoms. Try drinking half a cup before meals.
• Eat Bananas: Fresh or dried bananas are natural acid neutralizers and can provide relief from GERD symptoms.
• Chamomile Tea: Chamomile tea can help soothe irritation in the esophagus and reduce stomach acid.
• Ginger: Fresh, boiled, or as tea, ginger can calm GERD and ease nausea.
• Turmeric: Turmeric encourages healthy digestion and prevents acid buildup. Add it to your meals or take it as a supplement.

Warnings

If you experience severe and frequent GERD during pregnancy, consult your attending physician.
Frequent nighttime GERD can be a symptom of damage to the esophageal tissue.
GERD symptoms can mimic heart attack symptoms. If you experience sudden chest pain or pressure, seek immediate medical attention.