How do I Handle Pregnancy Indigestion?

While pregnancy is a joyous time for many women, certain pregnancy related symptoms, such as tiredness, bloating, and pregnancy indigestion, can temper an expectant mother's enthusiasm. Because of the numerous physical and hormonal changes that pregnant women experience, indigestion is a common side effect of pregnancy, resulting in gas, bloating, and heartburn. In many cases, pregnancy indigestion is a temporary and manageable condition, though some might find their symptoms to be intolerable. If you are suffering from pregnancy indigestion, speak to your doctor or midwife about your concerns. They can suggest certain safe ways to handle pregnancy indigestion, including changes in diet, different body postures while relaxing, and, in some cases, antacids.

The causes of indigestion during pregnancy are varied. Pregnancy hormones can relax digestive tract muscles which, in turn, slows digestion, resulting in a pregnant woman having more gas than usual. This relaxing of the digestive tract, in combination with uterine pressure on the stomach and the general filling of the abdomen, can result in bloating and heartburn. For this reason, common treatments for indigestion usually focus on minimizing gas, reducing abdominal crowding, and avoiding foods that aggravate heartburn.

You may first be encouraged to change your eating habits. For example, eating five or six smaller meals throughout the day, rather than three large meals, can make it easier on your system to digest food. You might also try avoiding liquids with meals to help prevent over-filling your stomach. Fried foods and foods that are high in fat can slow digestion, so minimizing their consumption can be good idea. If heartburn is a significant problem, be very careful about consuming spicy foods, foods and beverages flavored with mint, and beverages containing caffeine, such as coffee, tea and cola. All of these foods, flavorings, and drinks can aggravate heartburn. Avoid lying down right after you eat, as this can slow digestion and encourage acid flow into your esophagus. Make sure that your abdomen is unrestricted. Don't wear tight clothing, which crowds your abdomen, and even if you aren't showing yet, consider switching to loose-fitting or maternity clothing. When lying down, use pillows or cushions to keep your head and shoulders elevated.

If none of these lifestyle or diet changes work for you, you might consider taking an antacid, but only after consulting with your health-care provider. Calcium-based antacids are considered by some doctors to be ineffectual at managing indigestion for long periods of time, though they can be a good way to get extra calcium in the diet. Some physicians may recommend liquid antacids, over-the-counter acid blockers, or even prescription treatments.