Lifestyle

9 Ways To Deal With Indigestion During Pregnancy

Sudeshna Chakravarti  |  Apr 28, 2022
9 Ways To Deal With Indigestion During Pregnancy

Indigestion is a common problem that most women experience during pregnancy. Medically known as dyspepsia, symptoms of indigestion appear due to the physical changes and hormonal fluctuations in the body during this period. It is often characterised by discomfort in the upper abdomen as well as stomach aches and can occur at any time during pregnancy, including the first trimester. However, it is more common starting from the last week of the second trimester—the 27th week. 

While this pregnancy symptom isn’t harmful to your baby, it can be uncomfortable and painful for you, and can also lead to other common pregnancy-related symptoms such as nausea, bloating, and heartburn. 

What Causes Indigestion During Pregnancy

Indigestion during pregnancy occurs due to hormonal fluctuations and heartburn

There are a few reasons you may experience indigestion during pregnancy including, acid reflux hormonal fluctuation, and a growing baby. 

Apart from the reasons described above, your risk of indigestion during pregnancy increases if you:

What Are The Symptoms Of Indigestion

The symptoms of indigestion vary from one woman to another and are usually experienced after a meal and may include the following:

The above symptoms do not remain persistent throughout the day but they are known to increase both in severity and frequency as you near the third trimester. 

9 Ways To Relieve Indigestion During Pregnancy

There are several remedies that can be used to ease and prevent the unpleasant symptoms of indigestion during pregnancy. Although most of them haven’t been scientifically proven, many expecting mums find them helpful.

Image caption: Have smaller, well-balanced meals at frequent intervals

When To Seek Help From Your Doctor

Image caption: If your symptoms worsen, make sure to consult your doctor immediately 

Indigestion and its related symptoms could be daunting, especially if you have never experienced them before pregnancy. If the above remedies do not work for you, and the symptoms get worse, seek your doctor’s help. Consult your doctor if you experience:

Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your doctor will recommend an ideal course of treatment.

Indigestion during pregnancy is typical and seldom severe. Understanding its risk factors and taking necessary measures can help prevent the condition from worsening. Avoid healthy dietary habits and lifestyles to manage indigestion, and refrain from taking any medication before consulting your doctor. 

Read More From Lifestyle