Pregnancy brings along many symptoms – fatigue, backaches, food cravings, morning sickness and, of course, heartburn, the fiery feeling you get in your chest that usually travels up your oesophagus.
Heartburn usually occurs during the second or third trimester. According to Healthline, apart from hormones and slowed digestion, another reason for the burning sensation can be because of your growing baby. As the uterus expands with the growing baby, it competes for space with the other organs. The uterus then places pressure on the stomach, making it more likely for stomach acids to spill out, especially if the stomach is full.
However, there are ways to treat this symptom. Below are five ways, suggested by Healthline, to cool down that burn.
Acupuncture
A 2015 study showed that pregnant women who receive acupuncture reported an improvement in their ability to eat and sleep.
Sit up straight when eating
Avoid slouching while you are eating. Gravity will help your food stay put.
Drink after meals instead of with them
Drinking liquids while eating your food will create a full stomach, making it easy for heartburn to occur.
Opt for loose-fitting clothes
Avoid garments such as Spanx that create pressure around your belly. Instead, wear stretchy pants that will provide you the much-needed comfort.
Avoid acidic and spicy foods
These types of foods create more acid in the stomach than bland foods.
Some of the foods you should avoid are:
- Citrus,
- Tomatoes
- Onions
- Garlic
- Caffeine
- Chocolate
- Cooldrinks
- Fried and fatty foods
Also see: Intimacy and sex after a baby
