Pregnancy And Peptic Ulcers

Peptic ulcers are common during pregnancy and can cause abdominal pain and discomfort.

Peptic ulcers occur in pregnant women the same as normal population, but it has been established that symptoms are even less severe during pregnancy.

TREATING ULCERS IN PREGNANCY

Diet and lifestyle changes can help minimize symptoms of peptic ulcers during pregnancy.
Treatment options for peptic ulcers during pregnancy is antacids

GASTRO ESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE (GERD)

The most common gastric problem pregnant women face is actually
Gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD) it can mimic some ulcer symptoms like heartburn, indigestion etc. It is caused by factors such as hormones ( progesterone) in early pregnancy and the shift of internal organs in late pregnancy.

The treatment for GERD is basically antacids and in severe cases some PPIs. Treatment is also restricted because not all drugs are safe during pregnancy.

GERD resolves on its own in most cases after delivery.

WHY HEARTBURN IS FREQUENT DURING PREGNANCY

Stomach acid seeping up into your esophagus is called gastroesophageal reflux. During pregnancy, reflux is more common because pregnancy hormones slow down your digestive system and relax the valve that normally keeps acid in your stomach. Add to this the growing baby in your belly pushing up against your stomach and you can understand why heartburn is a common problem for pregnant women. In fact, up to 80 percent of women complain of heartburn.