The accession of hormones in the woman’s body during pregnancy may results to softening of the ligaments along the Lower Esophageal Sphincter or LES. The ligaments are supposed to firmly close LES. In this event where the ligaments are softer than normal, LES tends to be more relaxed and at rest, to which it does not close tightly causing food particles and gastric acid to reflux towards the esophagus up to the throat. Aside from this, the developing baby inside the womb increases the pressure on the mother’s stomach, resulting to a backflow of acid.
Approximately, 80% of women that are pregnant show signs of GERD. The symptoms may vary from very mild to severe. But it rarely appears to be critical in cases like these. Usually, symptoms disappear after the pregnancy period.
Feeling nauseated and vomiting are one of the most obvious symptoms and basically starts on the first trimester of the pregnancy. Usually, these signs are visible on the first part of the pregnancy or if not, on the last trimester. But unluckily for some, vomiting and nausea will go all throughout the whole nine months. The increase of the female hormones, progesterone and estrogen, is pointed out to be the main cause of such discomfort.
Women who had GERD before they got pregnant have a higher probability of acquiring one in pregnancy, at an intense level possibly. Certain cases show that GERD in a pregnant woman can be so serious that it requires hospitalization. Severe vomiting is followed by weight loss, and dehydration. Dehydration is fatal enough, how much more in pregnant women? Regular level of weight is measured regularly during pregnancy. If a pregnant mom exceeds below pregnancy benchmark for her weight, consulting to a qualified gastroenterologist is really necessary.
Severe cases of GERD may proceed to malnutrition. This is clearly baleful for both mother and baby. One safety measure is ginger. Just take on a small quantity or amount of ginger and chew it or just simply take on a little portion. Gingers are said to be good stimulants for saliva production. Saliva is known for being a natural antacid. Ginger also contributes in relieving vomiting and nausea, and it is a good carminative or gas reliever.
Several helpful guidelines can be practiced to keep a healthy and happy pregnancy. Drinking alcoholic beverages and smoking are never known to be good for the health. Even more so on pregnant women. Lying on the left side is a beneficial sleeping position for soon-to-be-mommies since majority of the major organs are on the right and inclining the head is a recommended lying position in a way to keep the stomach lower than esophagus. Spicy foods, fatty and greasy ones are to be avoided as well, along with chocolates, coffee, garlic and tomatoes. When doing routine exercises, never do any bouncing motions and avoid doing any bending forwards. With a bulging tummy, these activities are obviously inconvenient. Nevertheless, a little reminder does no harm. Just stick to an uprightly positioned exercise like brisk walking.
Medical intervention may be used to help ease acid reflux, but only with a doctor’s consent and prescription. The antacids are reported to be safe to use even if pregnant because it does not cross into the placenta and mediate baby’s circulation. However, antacids with sodium bicarbonate causes fluid retention.
Pregnant women are not really advise to take on any form of medication as much as possible, except for their required vitamins. But if really needed, only physicians know what is truly best for both mother and the unborn baby.
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