How to Relieve Bloating, Indigestion, and Stomach Discomfort During Pregnancy – Can You Take Medication?

Bloating during pregnancy is a common issue that many expectant mothers experience. This discomfort can be frustrating and unsettling, leaving moms-to-be wondering how to prevent bloating, what remedies are available, and whether any medications can be safely taken to relieve the symptoms.

Bloating during pregnancy often occurs during the first trimester. It is characterized by discomfort in the stomach, a feeling of fullness, and excessive gas in the digestive system, leading to frequent burping or passing gas. Sometimes, stomach growling sounds may also occur. Bloating is considered a normal symptom for pregnant women.

1. Hormonal Changes
   During pregnancy, progesterone levels increase significantly. This hormone helps support the pregnancy but also causes excess gas buildup, leading to bloating.

2. Slower Digestion
   Pregnancy slows down intestinal function, causing food to remain in the stomach longer. This delay in digestion leads to gas accumulation and bloating.

3. Uterus Expansion
   As the pregnancy progresses, the growing uterus puts pressure on the stomach and intestines, affecting digestion and contributing to bloating.

4. Dietary and Eating Habits
   Certain eating habits can also contribute to bloating, such as:

   • Not chewing food thoroughly

   • Eating spicy or fried foods

   • Consuming gas-producing vegetables and fruits

These factors combined make bloating a common issue during pregnancy.

Ways to Relieve Bloating for Pregnant Women

• Chew food thoroughly – Take your time when eating and chew food well to help your body digest more easily.

• Eat nutritious foods – Choose foods rich in vitamins and minerals while avoiding fried and greasy foods.

• Avoid spicy foods – Spicy foods can worsen bloating, so it’s best to limit their intake.

• Eat small, frequent meals – Instead of consuming large portions at once, eat smaller amounts more frequently to reduce bloating.

• Avoid gas-producing foods – Stay away from foods that cause gas, such as carbonated drinks and processed meats.

Medications for Bloating that Pregnant Women Can Take:

• Tablet form medications: Such as Antacil, Air-X

• Powder form medications: Like Eno

• Liquid form medications: For example, Alam Milk

• Herbal remedies: Such as turmeric

Generally, doctors recommend treating bloating through natural methods rather than medication, as some medicines may have negative effects on the baby. However, if the bloating is severe, it’s best for pregnant women to consult their doctor for appropriate treatment. Avoid self-medicating.

Foods that pregnant women should avoid to prevent bloating include:

• Certain vegetables: Such as cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts. These vegetables contain a sugar called raffinose, which can produce gas.

• Some starches: Such as wheat flour, corn starch, and tapioca starch. These can contribute to excess gas production.

• Beans: Beans contain raffinose, a sugar that can lead to gas formation, and they also slow down digestion.

• Foods and beverages with fructose: Such as garlic, onions, apples, honey, fruit juices, dried fruits, and carbonated drinks. These foods contain fructose and may also include added carbon dioxide, which contributes to bloating.

Bloating during pregnancy is a common condition, often caused by eating foods high in gas or spicy foods, along with not chewing food thoroughly. This leads to indigestion or slower digestion, which causes a feeling of fullness and bloating. To relieve mild bloating, medications like Antacil, Air-X, or Eno can be used.

However, if a pregnant woman experiences severe or abnormal bloating, she should consult a doctor instead of self-medicating, as it could be harmful. If you have further questions, feel free to ask via Line: @beyondivf.