Heartburn and Acid Reflux During the Sixth Month of Pregnancy

During the sixth month of pregnancy, many women experience symptoms such as heartburn and acid reflux. These discomforts can be caused by various factors including dietary habits, functional changes in the digestive system, or underlying medical conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Proper diagnosis is essential to determine the right course of treatment.

Dietary Habits Play a Key Role

Consuming large meals, spicy or cold foods, sweets, or high-fat dishes can increase stomach acid production, leading to heartburn and acid reflux. A balanced and light diet with easily digestible meals such as fish broth or rice soup can help ease these symptoms. It's also important to avoid raw, cold, or overly processed foods that may irritate the stomach lining.

Slower Digestive Motility Due to Hormonal Changes

By the sixth month of pregnancy, increased levels of progesterone and the growing size of the uterus can slow down gastrointestinal motility. This delay in digestion often causes acid buildup and heartburn. Engaging in gentle physical activity like walking or prenatal yoga, along with eating fiber-rich vegetables, can help stimulate digestion and reduce discomfort.

Impact of GERD During Pregnancy

As the baby grows, the available space for the stomach decreases, increasing the likelihood of acid flowing back into the esophagus. This can cause persistent heartburn and even shortness of breath in severe cases. To manage this, it's recommended to avoid eating at least two hours before bedtime and not lie flat immediately after meals. Elevating the upper body by about 30 degrees while sleeping can provide relief. In some cases, doctors may prescribe proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole or lansoprazole to control acid production.

Seek Medical Advice if Symptoms Persist

If lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments don't improve symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare provider to rule out other potential issues such as peptic ulcers or gastrointestinal tumors. As pregnancy requires special care, any treatment—whether medication or surgical—should be done under the guidance of a doctor to ensure the safety of both mother and baby. Always follow professional medical advice when considering treatment options during pregnancy.