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Dealing with Reflux in Pregnancy

Chris Rayner MB BS, PhD FRACP

Most women experience symptoms of gastro-oesophageal reflux during pregnancy. Here, Dr Chris Rayner outlines an approach to this common complaint.

  • Up to two-thirds of women report daily heartburn during pregnancy. The symptom is most troublesome in the third trimester.
  • For most women, heartburn is a new symptom that begins in pregnancy and resolves with delivery.
  • Pregnancy is associated with a progressive decline in basal lower oesophageal sphincter pressure, possibly due to the effects of oestrogen and progesterone on the smooth muscle. Raised intra-abdominal pressure and impaired oesophageal peristalsis may contribute. The role of transient sphincter relaxations (the major mechanism of most reflux disease) has not been studied in pregnant women.

Mild reflux symptoms

May respond to lifestyle modifications. These include raising the head of the bed 15cm and avoiding late night meals, foods that precipitate heartburn, smoking and alcohol.

 


Dealing with Reflux in Pregnancy

Medicine Today, February 2005, Volume 6, Number 2.



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