Pregnancy is an incredible journey full of happiness, anticipation, and new experiences. However, it is not without its challenges. Heartburn is a common problem for many pregnant women, and it can range from mildly uncomfortable to downright painful. And our usual totka is to sip on 7up or have 7up with doodh to cure the burn. But does it really help? To know the cure, you must understand the reason behind your pain as well.
What is heartburn during pregnancy?
Heartburn, also called acid reflux, occurs when your stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus, irritating it. This sensation is usually described as a burning sensation in the chest or throat, which can sometimes be accompanied by an unpleasant taste in the mouth (also referred to as munh mein karwahat mehsoos hona). While heartburn can occur at any stage, it is most common in the second and third trimesters. As your body prepares to accommodate your growing baby, these changes can affect the digestive system, making heartburn a common occurrence for you.
Causes of heartburn
- The hormone change: The main culprit is progesterone, also known as the "pregnancy hormone." While progesterone is important for maintaining pregnancy, it also relaxes the muscles of the digestive tract. This includes the lower esophageal sphincter, which normally keeps stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. When this muscle relaxes, stomach acid can escape and cause heartburn.
- Uterus expansion: As your baby grows, your uterus expands to accommodate your developing baby. This increases pressure on the stomach, which can force stomach contents, including acid, back up into the esophagus.
- Slower digestion: Pregnancy slows the digestive process, allowing your body to absorb as many nutrients as possible to nourish your baby. However, slower digestion can cause food to remain in the stomach longer, increasing the risk of acid reflux.
- Changes in: Pregnancy cravings and increased hunger can lead to overeating or eating foods that are more likely to cause heartburn, such as spicy or fatty snacks.
Signs and symptoms
- Burning sensation: The main sign/symptom is a burning sensation in the chest or throat, which usually occurs after eating or while lying down.
- Munh khatta hona: A sour or acidic taste in your mouth may occur as a result of stomach acid reaching the throat.
- Trouble swallowing: Persistent irritation can make swallowing difficult.
- Coughing or galay mein kharaash: Stomach acid can irritate the throat, causing a persistent cough or hoarse voice.
- Feeling worse after meals or lying down: Heartburn frequently worsens after eating large meals, consuming trigger foods, or lying flat soon after eating.
Does 7Up treat heartburn?
Our go-to desi totka is to have carbonated drinks to ease the burn, such as 7Up, because the fizz may provide temporary relief by causing burping, which lowers your stomach pressure. However, this is a myth. In reality, carbonated beverages, such as 7Up, can often worsen your heartburn. The bubbles in fizzy drinks can cause bloating and pressure in the stomach, making acid reflux more painful. Sugary drinks can also irritate the stomach lining, causing discomfort. If you want to treat your heartburn, there are safer and more effective alternatives to drinking 7Up even if it is mixed with doodh.
Some at-home treatments
- Small and frequent meals: Instead of three large meals per day, aim for four or five smaller meals. Smaller portions help to reduce the chances of stomach overload and acid reflux.
- Try not to lie down: You should stay upright for at least two to three hours after eating. This helps gravity keep stomach acid where it belongs: in the stomach.
- Identify the trigger: Some foods such as
- Spicy foods
- Fatty or fried dishes
- Citrus fruits
- Chocolate
- Caffeine
- And carbonated beverages
Can easily cause heartburn. Keeping a food diary can help you identify your triggers and avoid these foods to make your pregnancy journey as smooth as possible.
- Natural liquids to the rescue: Drinking milk or herbal teas can help neutralize stomach acid and soothe the esophagus. Herbal teas, such as ginger and chamomile, are known for their calming properties and can help with digestion.
- Chewing sugar-free gum: Chewing gum increases saliva production, which can help neutralize stomach acid. Simply ensure that the gum is sugar-free to avoid unnecessary calorie intake. However, if you don’t want to chew on gums, saunf or ajwain work just as well, if not better than chewing gum.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking water throughout the day can dilute stomach acid and soothe irritation. However, avoid drinking excessively during meals, as this can raise stomach pressure.
- Put those pillows to use: Using pillows to elevate your head while sleeping can help prevent acid from rising into the esophagus.
- Whip out the baggy clothing: Tight clothing can put pressure on your stomach and worsen your heartburn, which is why you should dress comfortably and wear baggy clothing. (with the added benefit of comfort of course!)
- If nothing works, OTCs will help too: Some antacids are safe to use while pregnant, but always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Should I see a doctor?
While heartburn during pregnancy is typically treatable at home, severe signs/symptoms may require medical attention. If you're experiencing:
- Difficulty eating or holding food down
- Unexplained weight loss
- Severe chest pain
- Signs/symptoms that do not improve despite lifestyle changes
Please consult your healthcare provider for a more thorough evaluation and other treatment options.
Heartburn is a common side effect of pregnancy, but it does not have to detract you from this wonderful experience. While carbonated beverages such as 7Up may not be the solution, there are numerous other safe and natural ways to relieve heartburn. Pregnancy is a time to nurture both yourself and your baby, so take these steps to stay comfortable and cherish every moment of this remarkable journey!
