Heartburn During Pregnancy

What is heartburn?

Heartburn is that not so fun sensation felt in the upper chest that is a burning or gnawing type pain. If you experience heartburn I am sure you are already saying to yourself that heartburn is your worst enemy… well look no further because here is some reasoning behind what causes heartburn especially during pregnancy and how to help diminish the symptoms!!

How to know if you might be experiencing heartburn

Here are just a few symptoms you might feel if you have heartburn:

·      Feeling warmth or heat in chest

·      Burning sensation in your chest

·      Bitter or acidic taste in mouth

·      Pain that is worse when lying down

Hormones During Pregnancy

The hormone progesterone which has high secretions during pregnancy to support baby and all processes in the body happening during pregnancy can have an effect on the sphincter in your esophagus (throat). The hormone causes relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter who’s role in the body stops food from flowing in the wrong direct. However, if it cannot do its job as well because progesterone is telling it to relax, this causes heartburn and reflux because stomach content gets backed up into the esophagus.

Growing Baby and Uterus

Heartburn is most common to be experienced in the third trimester as baby is growing in the uterus. The growing uterus starts to put pressure on the stomach and the intestines causing stomach contents to push back up into the throat which causes reflux and heartburn.

 Natural Tips and Remedies

·      Eat several small meals each day instead of three large ones

·      Eat slowly and avoid spicy or fried food

·      Drink less while eating and more in between meals – allows digestive enzymes and stomach acid to not be diluted

·      Don't lie down directly after eating

How about a chiropractor?

Did you think I would leave out chiropractic… no way!! Chiropractic during pregnancy is completely safe and very beneficial. We are able to help you with digestion while working with the spine and nervous system to allow the parasympathetic nervous system to do its job!! Certain adjustments geared towards relaxing the diaphragm can help with the valves in your esophagus to help with reflux and heartburn.

Dr. Kayla specializes in chiropractic care during pregnancy. Be sure to hop on her schedule on the home page or give the office a call at 303-335-9540.