GERD (Acid Reflux) and Pregnancy
Most pregnant women have symptoms of GERD (acid reflux), especially heartburn, during pregnancy. Acid reflux symptoms can begin at any time during a pregnancy. Very often, these symptoms grow worse as the pregnancy progresses.
Why Does Heartburn Occur During Pregnancy?
Heartburn is very common during pregnancy. Heartburn occurs when hormones cause the digestive system to slow down. Hormones also cause the muscles that push food down the esophagus to slow down during pregnancy. In addition, as the uterus grows, it pushes on the stomach and sometimes forces stomach acid up into the esophagus.
Heartburn is common during pregnancy but it rarely causes complications. In rare instances, inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis) or harm to the fetus can occur. Usually, GERD symptoms such as heartburn improve or disappear once the baby is born.
Common Heartburn Treatments for Pregnant Women
Heartburn treatments for pregnant women are similar to treatment for nonpregnant women who have GERD. Making lifestyle changes and avoiding certain nonprescription medications can provide significant relief. Try these useful tips first:
- Avoid lying down right after eating.
- Avoid eating certain foods that may make heartburn worse (click here for a list of foods commonly associated with GERD).
- Elevate the head of your bed
- Use nonprescription antacids for relief of heartburn symptoms. Pregnant women should avoid antacids that contain sodium bicarbonate because they can lead to fluid retention. Antacids that contain calcium carbonate (such as Tums) are acceptable for pregnant women.
Prescription Drug Treatment for Pregnant Women with GERD
Some health professionals recommend a prescription drug such as sucralfate for treating acid reflux symptoms during pregnancy. Although some prescription drugs are safe for use during pregnancy, others are generally not recommended.
DO NOT use these prescription and nonprescription drugs without discussing them with your health professional:
- Acid reducers, such as cimetidine (for example, Tagamet) or ranitidine (for example, Zantac).
- Proton pump inhibitors, such as omeprazole (for example, Prilosec) or lansoprazole (Prevacid, for example).
There are several different categories of drugs used to treat GERD (acid reflux).Click here for more information about H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors, and promotility agents.
Click here to find a nearby GERD specialist who is up-to-date on the latest advances in heartburn treatments.
