Acidity in Pregnancy: Causes, Symptoms & Remedies

Pregnancy, a joyful journey, is filled with experiences. Since there are a lot of changes that a mother’s body undergoes, they can also become overwhelming at times. Among these changes, acidity is one common concern that most expectant mothers face. While the condition is not harmful in most cases, significant discomfort can be experienced. General symptom of acidity includes a burning sensation in your chest or throat.

During pregnancy, it can occur at any stage. However, many women notice its frequency in the later months. Now, there are several causes behind it that must be taken care of in a timely manner. Let us learn more about acidity in pregnancy in detail, how it happens, what its symptoms are, and remedies.

Related Article: What are Some Common Complications of Pregnancy in Women?

What are the Causes of Acidity in Pregnancy?

Pregnancy affects acidity through both hormonal and physical changes in the body. Digestion is changed, and women become more likely to experience acid reflux and discomfort. The following are the most typical causes of acidity during pregnancy:

Hormonal Changes

Progestone is a commonly produced hormone during pregnancy. This hormone is for muscle relaxation. It also allows the lower oesophageal sphincter to relax, which actually prevents the stomach acid from rising normally, thus causing more acid reflux.

Pressure from the Growing Uterus

The uterus gradually gets bigger in size as the baby inside grows. As a result, it puts additional pressure on the mother’s stomach. Now, this, as a ripple effect, leads to an increased acid reflux into the food pipe. Usually, the frequency of acidity in pregnancy in the later months increases because of this reason.

Slowed Digestion

During pregnancy, the digestive process slows, and it promotes better absorption of nutrients by the mother and the baby. However, slower digestion may lead to bloating, heartburn, and acidity more frequently.

Dietary Triggers

Hot, greasy, or sour food can cause acidity in pregnant women. The problem can also be increased by overeating or lying down directly after meals.

What are the Symptoms of Acidity in Pregnancy?

During pregnancy, every woman undergoes hormonal and physical changes that are unique in every case. In case of acidity, some feel the discomfort mildly. On the other hand, others experience the symptoms with high severity. Nevertheless, being aware of the following symptoms can help ease the stress and prevent it from turning into any bigger medical issue:

Burning Sensation

The burning sensation felt around the chest or throat is a common symptom. It tends to be exacerbated by eating or lying.

Regurgitation

Some women, because of acidity during pregnancy, experience a sour or bitter taste. The acid comes up to the mouth from the stomach. It may also lead to frequent nausea. 

Difficulty in Swallowing

At times, acidity during pregnancy may cause the feeling of food being trapped in the throat, making swallowing painful.

Bloating and Burping

Gas accumulation in the stomach due to acidity is one of the root causes of bloating, burping, and overall discomfort.

Sleep Disturbances

Acidity is something that is very common in pregnancy, and it does interfere with sleep.  Exhaustion and insomnia can also be experienced by some women.

How Can Pregnant Women Find Relief From Acidity?

Acidity is an easily manageable condition, but during pregnancy, the experience is quite different. What may seem a minor hiccup can feel extremely overwhelming in this phase. However, with changes in lifestyle and diet, it can be managed easily. 

The following are some safe and reliable measures to ease discomfort while protecting both your own and the baby’s well-being:

Eat Smaller Meals but Frequently

Instead of having heavy meals, eating less but at frequent intervals promotes easier digestion. It gives time to the body to break down the food, absorb the nutrients, and segregate the remaining from it. As a result of reduced strain on the stomach, the chances of acid reflux are less.

Avoid Acidity Triggering Foods

Different food types, like spicy, fried, or overly acidic, tend to cause acidity. Instead, during pregnancy, consuming lighter and nutritious meals can be a safer option.

Sit Upright After Meals

Lying down right after having any meal is unhealthy, not just for pregnant women, but in general for everyone. If you avoid lying down for about half an hour after having a meal, it prevents acid from popping back up into the oesophagus.

Stay Hydrated

Adequate water consumption leads to dilution of stomach acid, thereby reducing any irritation and chances of acidity. Avoid drinking large amounts in one go, as it may worsen bloating.

Use Pillows for Better Sleep

Raising the head while sleeping with extra pillows or using a wedge pillow can stop acid from moving upward at night.

Wear Comfortable Clothing

Uncomfortable outfits, especially the ones that are tight around the waist, put pressure on the stomach. On the contrary, loose and breathable clothing can reduce the risk of acid reflux.

Consult a Doctor for Safe Medication

It may happen that lifestyle changes are not sufficient to compensate for the prevention of acidity in pregnancy. During such times, doctors may prescribe safe medications like an antacid.

Eat Slowly and Chew Well

Chewing food thoroughly is crucial while eating. It promotes an easier digestion process and also prevents overeating and acidity.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

During pregnancy, a lot of changes occur, including weight gain. However, keeping a check on the recommended limits can reduce the chances of adding pressure on the stomach.

Practice Gentle Exercise

Light physical activities, like walking after meals, allow food to move down the digestive system more efficiently. This eventually leads to fewer chances of having reflux.

Limit Caffeine and Carbonated Drinks

Coffee, tea, and fizzy drinks are acidic beverages. Limiting their amount helps maintain digestive balance.

Keep Stress Levels Low

Stress is one of the most influential emotions that can worsen digestive issues. Prenatal yoga, meditation, deep breathing, etc., are proven exercises to support both mental and digestive health.

When to Seek Medical Help?

Although acidity in pregnancy is common, many times, taking medical consultation may become necessary. This is especially the case when severe symptoms begin to create further complications. The following are the situations when you may need medical help:

• Severe or Persistent Heartburn
• Difficulty Breathing
• Unexplained Weight Loss
• Chest Pain

There are times when such minor issues are just underlying symptoms of something serious. In such situations, having a backup like a maternity insurance policy can be extremely beneficial while seeking medical help.

For example, at Niva Bupa, we have a base of 10,000+ network hospitals that you can easily reach out to in case of medical emergencies. In fact, our maternity insurance plans, along with other health insurance, have cashless claim facilities, so it becomes easier to manage such situations.

Conclusion

Acidity in pregnancy is common. However, it does not mean that it should overshadow this important phase of life. By understanding the causes and recognising symptoms early, expectant mothers can take practical steps to find relief. From simple lifestyle changes to safe remedies, there are many ways to manage this condition effectively.

A healthy diet, mindful habits, and medical guidance, where necessary, ensure both mother and baby stay safe. With the right approach, like investing in maternity insurance, you can ensure the joys of pregnancy.

People Also Ask

1. Is acidity common during pregnancy?

   Yes, acidity is very common in pregnancy due to hormonal changes and pressure from the growing uterus. Most women experience it at some stage. Though uncomfortable, it is usually harmless and can be managed with safe remedies and lifestyle changes.

2. What foods should I avoid to prevent acidity in pregnancy?

   Pregnant women should avoid spicy, fried, and oily foods. Limiting citrus fruits, chocolates, caffeinated drinks, and carbonated beverages also helps. These items trigger acid reflux and worsen heartburn, making pregnancy discomforts more frequent and harder to manage.

3. Can acidity harm my baby during pregnancy?

   Acidity does not harm the baby directly. It mainly causes discomfort for the mother. However, persistent symptoms should be discussed with a doctor to rule out complications and ensure both mother and child remain safe and healthy.

4. How can I relieve acidity at night during pregnancy?

   Sleeping with your head elevated using pillows, avoiding meals right before bedtime, and wearing loose clothing can help. Drinking water in small sips or consuming light snacks like bananas may also ease acidity at night.

5. Are medicines for acidity safe during pregnancy?

   Some antacids and medications are considered safe during pregnancy, but should only be taken under medical guidance. Self-medicating can be risky. Always consult your doctor before starting any medicine to relieve acidity or heartburn during pregnancy.

6. Does stress make acidity worse during pregnancy?

   Yes, stress can worsen acidity. Anxiety or tension affects digestion and increases acid reflux. Pregnant women can benefit from relaxation techniques like deep breathing, prenatal yoga, or meditation to reduce stress and ease symptoms of acidity naturally.

7. When should I see a doctor for acidity in pregnancy?

   If acidity is severe, persistent, or affects eating and sleeping, consult a doctor. Seek medical help immediately if chest pain, unexplained weight loss, or difficulty breathing occur, as these could signal more serious health issues.