How to Prevent Heartburn during Pregnancy
One of the most recognized symptoms of pregnancy, heartburn can be an annoying side effect for many pregnant women. Some women during pregnancy will experience a mild burn in their throat or chest. Other women might experience heartburn as a lump in their throat.
Heartburn during pregnancy can be very uncomfortable. Luckily, there are several things you can do to minimize your chances of suffering from this annoying condition!
First and foremost, rather than eating three large meals a day you should try to eat several small meals throughout the day. This can help prevent heartburn and allow you to focus on the baby, NOT how uncomfortable you feel!
Some women find that chewing a stick of gum after a meal helps with heartburn because it’s thought that gum helps neutralize excess stomach acid. Yogurt and milk are also great foods that can help women suffering from heartburn during pregnancy. Experiment and find what works for you, but avoid your “trigger foods” (foods that always seem to bring on heartburn) altogether!
If dietary changes aren’t doing anything to eliminate your heartburn, speak with your doctor about over the counter heartburn products that are safe to use during pregnancy. While OTC antacids are generally considered safe for pregnant women, your doctor will be able to best advise you on a treatment plan.
Rest assured that your heartburn wont last forever! Following the birth of your baby, your heartburn should dramatically diminish or cease altogether.
