Many a woman who never had heartburn before her pregnancy is plagued by it, especially in the last trimester. About half to two-thirds of all pregnant women are plagued by heartburn, a considerable number.
The reasons for this are very simple: the growing baby in the womb pushes the stomach upwards, the stomach sphincter, which is supposed to prevent stomach acid from escaping, can no longer do its job properly and the sensitive oesophagus comes into contact with the stomach acid.
The consequence of this is heartburn, which manifests itself with a burning or stabbing pain in the throat and/or chest area. This pain can extend from the stomach to the mouth. There may also be a strong flow of saliva and a sour taste in the mouth. All symptoms of heartburn are unpleasant, especially if they occur when you least need them, e.g. in the evening when you go to bed.
What else triggers heartburn?
Unfortunately, for many pregnant women, a growing belly means that they can no longer eat certain foods without suffering from heartburn. Spicy or fatty foods, vinegar, coffee, black tea and peppermint tea, carbonated drinks, acidic juices, chocolate and sweets all favour the onset of annoying heartburn.
Eating a lot or late at night can also cause heartburn, regardless of whether it was one of the foods listed above or not.
Tips on how to relieve heartburn
Fortunately, there are a number of home remedies for heartburn, but unfortunately they won't have the same success for everyone, so it's important to find the best remedy for yourself.
The purpose is to neutralise excess stomach acid, and a spoonful of sugar, a glass of milk, white bread, oatmeal or snacking on nuts can help.
When in bed, you should raise your upper body slightly so that stomach acid cannot enter the oesophagus so easily and, of course, adjust your meals to prevent heartburn. This applies to the type, timing and quantity of food.
If none of this helps, you can also ask your doctor to prescribe an antipepsic or use a homeopathic remedy.
If you particularly enjoy eating spicy and strongly seasoned food, it may help to eat your favourite foods in the months beforehand, knowing in advance that you have an increased chance of developing heartburn, so that it is easier to avoid them if necessary.
