Pregnancy and Reflux!

This blog series is lovely isn't it?  Symptom after symptom of various ailments and discomforts that come with the joy of a new baby... only to then have your sleep interrupted and sanity stretched =)  Yet... people still opt to have kids!  Ha... we're on #3 and though a bit fearful of what's to come, actually excited.  I suppose I'm always one who rises to challenges.  Though having a nanny is huge and I don't know what I'd do without extra help.

So...  about gastroesophageal reflux or heart burn...


This can happen to folks who are not pregnant but it is a common symptom in pregnancy.  Starts in the 1st trimester and may very well last or even get worse as the belly gets bigger and more pressure is pushing on the stomach.  Usually, one notices discomfort like a burning sensation in the chest and a sour taste in the mouth though sometimes it is subtle and one may only experience bloating or belching.


Foods that can exacerbate heartburn include:
-  tomato based foods
-  caffeine
-  chocolate
-  mint
-  carbonated beverages
-  fatty foods
-  spicy foods
-  dairy


There are some meds that can exacerbate heartburn as well so make sure you talk to your doctor.


Things you can try to do for it include:
-  avoid those list of foods that exacerbate the symptoms
-  eat smaller meals more frequently
-  eat slower
-  drink less during meals
-  avoid bending or exercising right after eating
-  avoid lying down sooner than 2-3 hrs after eating
-  avoid tight fitting garments or belts around the waist
-  avoid smoking and alcohol (well if you're pregnant you shouldn't be anyway!)


If you need meds you should speak to your doctor.  Tums or maalox may help.  You may also be put on something like Zantac or Prilosec or even Reglan.


I'm glad that I actually don't get this symptom too badly though certain meals do trigger it.  I had indian buffet for lunch today which is a lot of food and a lot of creamy sauce... so probably was not the best idea.