The burning sensation from acid reflux is annoying at best and painful at worst. While many can simply take an over-the-counter antacid or prescription medication to resolve the issue, what about pregnant women? How can you safely treat acid reflux when pregnant?
At RMG Gastroenterology, we take a holistic approach to health care. That means we see you as an individual—not just a medical record number. That’s why we care about both your health and the well-being of your baby.
With convenient locations throughout Wake County and the surrounding areas, we combine convenience, state-of-the-art medical technology and cost-effective, evidence-based care. Is chronic heartburn causing problems? Request an appointment today.
In this article, we’ll look at the delicate balancing act of treating acid reflux while pregnant, offering solutions and precautions. As always, we’re available to work with you in a collaborative effort with your OBGYN to provide a treatment that is both safe and effective.
How Common is Acid Reflux During Pregnancy?
Acid reflux is very common during pregnancy. In fact, anywhere from 30% to 80% of women experience it at some point during their pregnancy. It’s often worse in the second and third trimesters.
If you’ve had issues with heartburn before you got pregnant, then you’re more likely to experience it during your pregnancy. However, for many women, pregnancy marks their first experience with heartburn.
How to Treat Acid Reflux When You’re Pregnant
It’s often best to start with non-medical approaches, focusing on lifestyle adjustments, which are typically our first-line recommendations for pregnant women.
How to Prevent Acid Reflux Symptoms During Pregnancy
Some solutions include:
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals
- Avoiding foods that cause heartburn like spicy food, chocolate or fatty meals
- Wearing looser clothing to provide more abdominal room and relieve pressure
- Elevating the head of your bed while you sleep will reduce heartburn at night.
- Drinking milk or eating yogurt—both are natural remedies that can help
We are very careful when prescribing acid reflux-prevention medication to our pregnant patients. We’ll work together with you and take a complete medical history to help ensure the safety of you and your baby.
But What About Over-the-Counter Antacids?
We suggest that you speak to your OBGYN about this. While antacids do have to pass drug safety tests, those studies often don’t include pregnant women.
The bottom line: There are a lot of specifics we don’t know. It’s best to start with the simpler remedies we mentioned earlier and talk to us if you’re having extreme acid reflux while pregnant.
What Causes Acid Reflux When Pregnant?
You can blame it on the hormones–specifically progesterone. These hormones relax the muscle that prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the throat. This muscle is called the esophageal sphincter.
Progesterone can also slow down your digestive system.
The pressure of the baby growing inside the uterus can also contribute to GERD while pregnant
When You’re Fighting the Pain and Inconvenience of Heartburn, RMG Gastroenterology Will Help You Find Relief
GERD can be stressful enough without adding to the additional challenges of pregnancy. If heartburn is so intense that it’s disrupting your sleep or keeping you from your favorite meals, we’re here for you.
With locations throughout Wake County and nearby communities, our board-certified gastroenterologists deliver personalized treatment plans focused on lasting relief, guided by a true patient-first philosophy. We pair convenient scheduling with state-of-the-art Centers of Excellence, so you can access the quality care you deserve.
It’s simple to get started. Simply request an appointment.
