Heartburn

Are you aware that 2/3 of all pregnant women feel this discomfort? If you have never had heartburn or don't know what it is, it feels like a burning sensation in your chest. During pregnancy, your hormones relax the valve at the top of the stomach—making this more of a problem than normal. The fact that your uterus is pushing on your stomach may also increase the likelihood of heartburn. Bending or lying down after eating may increase heartburn, as well.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind to minimize heartburn:

• Eat small frequent meals.
• Avoid fatty, fried and spicy foods.
• Use less oil in cooking.
• Drink fluids a half an hour before eating solid foods.
• Elevate your head and shoulders after eating.
• Avoid lying down less than two hours after a meal.
• Avoid snug waistbands.
• Do not chew gum.
• Rest or sleep with the head of the bed propped up about 10 cm.
• Talk to the doctor or midwife that is working with you as a couple about the use of anti-acids.

Do not use baking soda to treat heartburn.