Acid Reflux During Pregnancy

What’s the best way to treat acid reflux during pregnancy?

Over-the-counter (OTC) antacids can be very helpful. Pregnant moms can also take some of the OTC pills that decrease stomach acid. But talk to your OB or midwife before beginning an OTC med like Tagamet to treat acid reflux. “We want to make sure that it won’t interact with anything else you might be taking,” Collins says.
Also, avoid peppermint tea, says Collins. While peppermint can be soothing to your stomach, it actually dilates the esophageal sphincter, the muscle that holds the esophagus shut, making it easier for stomach acid to back up into your throat.

Many moms-to-be have found relief by eating raw almonds, sucking on slippery elm lozenges or taking papaya enzyme tablets. You can also try propping up your upper body when you sleep; that position can decrease the amount of acid that backs up into your throat.

What can I do to prevent acid reflux during pregnancy?

Eat small, frequent meals. Avoid greasy, spicy foods, especially close to bedtime. And avoid milk. It might seem like milk’s a good idea, but it actually increases stomach acid, making things worse.

What do other pregnant moms do when they have acid reflux?

“My acid reflux gets horrible at night...so I usually take a Zantac 75 right before bed, and it helps a lot.”

“I was hoping I wouldn’t develop this fun pregnancy side effect, but no such luck. It’s especially bad if I eat late and then lie down too soon, and spicy and acidic foods make it worse.”

“If you want to go a home remedy path, apple cider vinegar works really well, or so does eating a red apple.”

Are there any other resources for acid reflux?

American Gastroenterological Association

Plus, more from The Bump:

Heartburn During Pregnancy

Nausea During Pregnancy

Gas During Pregnancy

-- Jennifer L.W. Fink

See More: Pregnancy Symptoms , Pregnancy Health , Pregnancy Conditions