Gastrointestinal Disease and Pregnancy B. Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Heartburn, nausea, vomiting, regurgitation, epigastric discomfort, anorexia, dysphagia, water brash, coughing, hoarseness, and sore throat are some of the symptoms of GERD. 

Book an appointment with your gynaecologist right away if you experience any of these symptoms

It is believed that both mechanical and hormonal factors contribute to the pathophysiology and etiology of GERD in pregnancy: 

• Lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation is caused by the presence of estrogen and progesterone. 
• Hormonally induced changes in stomach motility have also been linked to the condition as the enteric nerve system and musculature are hypothesized to be affected by pregnancy hormones, which results in a decrease in GI motility and may encourage GERD.GERD  

Both pregnant and nonpregnant patients experience identical clinical manifestations of GERD, and the diagnosis can be determined solely on the basis of symptoms. 

The preferred method for monitoring GERD problems is upper GI endoscopy. 

For pregnant women with GERD, lifestyle changes are the primary line of treatment to relieve symptoms and improve comfort. 

• Elevate the head of the bed, prevent stooping or bending, eat small, frequent meals, and avoid consuming food (other than beverages) three hours before going to bed. 

Additionally, GERD and its irritating symptoms are managed by medication in pregnant women. 

• Because antacids and sucralfate are not systemically absorbed, they are safe to take during pregnancy. Antacids, however, might prevent the body from absorbing iron. 

• Pregnant women should avoid using proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), in favor of histamine 2 (H2) blockers such as cimetidine, ranitidine, and famotidine. 

• Lansoprazole is the preferable PPI during pregnancy if PPI is required (class B).