Heartburn during pregnancy is very common, yet usually an easily treatable condition with natural medicine. It can occur at any stage but is most common during the second half of pregnancy.
What is Heartburn (also known as Acid Reflux, Indigestion) ?
Heartburn is a burning sensation in the oesophagus and can have a number of different associated symptoms, such as a burning sensation in the chest and throat and a sour, acidic taste.
Why does it happen?
Both hormonal and physical changes both contribute to symptoms of heartburn in pregnancy.
Hormonal: During pregnancy, the placenta produces the hormone progesterone which relaxes smooth muscles, it also relaxes the lower stomach valve which usually prevents acid from entering the oesophagus. FYI: this progesterone is the hormone which also contributes to constipation in pregnancy.
Physical: As your baby grows larger and takes up more space in your abdomen, the stomach organ is pushed upwards, which can force stomach acid up into the oesophagus, causing that unpleasant burning sensations.
Chinese Medicine perspective: heartburn is due to the changes happening on the Stomach meridian and organ system. Qi can move in any direction; up, down, contracting or expanding. The energy of your precious foetus, can impact the stomach channel which sends the stomach Qi upwards. In Chinese medicine this is referred to as Counterflow Stomach Qi.
8 Tips to reduce heartburn:
1-Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a safe therapy during your pregnancy and can give you immediate and long lasting relief from these symptoms.
A Clinical study on the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux by acupuncture was held in 2010 in order to explore the clinical efficacy and safety of acupuncture in treating gastric reflux, and concluded that 'Acupuncture can effectively inhibit the intraesophageal acid and bile reflux. Acupuncture alleviates gastric reflux symptoms with good safety and is well accepted by patients.'
2- Acupressure
The acupuncture point Stomach 44 i is a great acupressure point to alleviate heartburn located in the web between the 2nd and 3rd toes ). It is the fire point on the Stomach channel and helps to bring the 'Rebellious Stomach Qi' descend. If you want to try some acupressure, press one or both of the points for 2-3 minutes. You can press on this point several times a day or night.
3. Don't go to bed full; try to digest food for 2-3 hours before lying down. This prevents the stomach acid from entering the oesophagus.
4. Sleep with your upper body elevated with several pillows. This will allow gravity to do its work and keep stomach acid where it belongs.
5. Try to sit up straight, as this puts less pressure on the stomach, preventing the acid from rising.
6. Eat smaller meals more often, this will put less pressure on the stomach. Also try to eat your food slowly, as just about any food will cause acid reflux if too much is eaten too fast.
7. Avoid coffee, tomatoes, cucumbers, spicy food, fried foods and reduce fluid intake while eating
8. Fresh ginger is an ancient remedy for heartburn and nausea. It has a descending action so 'will tell the Stomach Qi to descend'. Try adding some freshly grated ginger into your tea or in your cooking.
Book an Acupuncture appointment for immediate and long lasting relief of heartburn.
How to choose an Acupuncturist
It is important to find a Trained and Experienced practitioner Acupuncturist. Diplomats of acupuncture have at least four years of academic training at the master’s level, must pass rigorous exams and meet state licensing and continuing education requirements.
Esther Hornstein is a New York State licensed acupuncturist and diplomat in acupuncture. with continuous professional update.
In her Therapeutic Holistic approach, she addresses Pediatric ailments, Men & Women’s health, Pain management and overall Wellness.
Her private practice is in Ramat Beit Shemesh, Israel. 2nd nature Healing Center, 34 Nachal Hakishon.
tel: 054 719 9600
To make an appointment you may:
Click on the link Below
call or WhatsApp : 054-719-9600
e-mail : e0547199600@gmail.com