Heartburn is the gift that just keeps on giving when it comes to the types of stomach pain pregnant women deal with. Some expectant mamas get it as early as the first trimester and have to battle until they give birth. Yikes.
Hoskins explained that a pregnancy hormone called progesterone causes the relaxation of the sphincter between the esophagus and stomach — and that makes the stomach acids reflux back into the esophagus. And while the lining of the stomach can resist the effects of these acids, the lining of the esophagus cannot, thus causing heartburn.
"When it comes to treating it, sleep propped up with extra pillows, drink liquids like milk, take Tums (which are also an excellent source of calcium!), and suck on frozen things, such as ice. Women with heartburn can also use Pepcid," she added.
