Can breastfeeding cause heartburn for mom?

Can Breastfeeding Cause Heartburn for Moms?
Breastfeeding is often celebrated for its numerous benefits for both mother and child, but it can also come with its own set of challenges. One such challenge that some mothers face is heartburn. While heartburn is commonly associated with pregnancy, many women report experiencing it during the breastfeeding period as well.
Understanding Heartburn During Breastfeeding
Heartburn, or gastroesophageal reflux, occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, leading to a burning sensation in the chest or throat. For breastfeeding mothers, this discomfort can be attributed to several factors. One primary reason is hormonal changes. After childbirth, the body undergoes a significant hormonal shift, particularly with the increase of the hormone relaxin, which can affect the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) — the muscle that prevents stomach contents from rising back up.
Additionally, the physical act of breastfeeding can contribute to heartburn. When a mother breastfeeds, she often adopts positions that may put pressure on her abdomen, especially if she is leaning forward or holding her baby in a way that compresses her stomach. This pressure can exacerbate the likelihood of acid reflux.
Dietary Influences on Heartburn
What a breastfeeding mother eats can also play a crucial role in her experience with heartburn. Certain foods are known to trigger acid reflux, such as spicy dishes, citrus fruits, chocolate, and caffeine. Mothers may need to be mindful of their diets to mitigate heartburn symptoms. Some women find that avoiding these trigger foods can significantly reduce their discomfort while breastfeeding.
Moreover, hydration is essential. Dehydration can lead to digestive issues, including heartburn. Therefore, maintaining adequate fluid intake is vital for breastfeeding mothers.
Management and Prevention Strategies
For those experiencing heartburn while breastfeeding, there are several strategies to manage and prevent symptoms. These include:
– Adjusting Feeding Positions: Finding a comfortable position that minimizes abdominal pressure can help reduce heartburn episodes.
– Eating Smaller Meals: Instead of large meals, consuming smaller, more frequent meals can prevent the stomach from becoming overly full, which can trigger reflux.
– Staying Upright After Feeding: Remaining upright for at least 30 minutes after breastfeeding can help keep stomach acid where it belongs.
– Consulting Healthcare Providers: If heartburn persists, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare provider for advice on safe medications or dietary adjustments.
In conclusion, while breastfeeding can indeed lead to heartburn for some mothers, understanding the underlying causes and implementing preventive measures can help alleviate this discomfort. As always, individual experiences may vary, and it’s important for mothers to listen to their bodies and seek professional guidance when needed.

Why do moms get heartburn?

It can be caused by hormonal changes and the growing baby pressing against your stomach. You can help ease indigestion and heartburn by making changes to your diet and lifestyle, and there are medicines that are safe to take in pregnancy.

Is postpartum heartburn normal?

Although GERD symptoms typically resolve following delivery, about 20% of women continue to experience GERD symptoms even after giving birth [19]. As these women may still require medications, it is important to consider the excretion of the medications in breast milk and its potential effect to the nursing infant.

What are 3 disadvantages of breastfeeding?

• There can be discomfort involved with breastfeeding.
• You may leak milk at times that are inconvenient or embarrassing.
• Feeding your baby in public may be more difficult.
• Everything you consume is being passed on to your baby.
• You need special clothing and bras for breastfeeding.

What causes heartburn in a breastfeeding mother?

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) or heartburn is common during pregnancy, probably because of a decrease in lower esophageal sphincter tone caused by progesterone. It usually resolves after delivery, but may persist into the lactation period in some individuals, and occasional heartburn is common in everyone.

What postpartum symptoms should not be ignored?

Significant postpartum bleeding resulting in a patient soaking through a pad for several hours in a row. Severe headache that doesn’t go away with Tylenol. Dizziness or feeling like you are about to faint. Fever higher than 100.4.

Can breastfeeding cause reflux?

However, approximately 7% of infants experience severe reflux, requiring medical care [3]. While the proportion of infants who suffer from reflux is similar among those who are breastfed and those who are formula fed, breastfed infants often have fewer and shorter episodes of reflux [2].

What is a common problem faced by most mothers when breastfeeding?

Sore or cracked nipples
Sore nipples usually happens because your baby is not well positioned and attached at the breast. Putting up with it could make pain or discomfort worse, so it’s important to get help from your midwife, health visitor or breastfeeding specialist as soon as you can.

How does breastfeeding affect the mother’s body?

Breastfeeding produces the hormone oxytocin. Oxytocin helps your uterus contract after delivery. This helps it return to its normal size and reduces the amount of vaginal bleeding after delivery. Increasing physical and emotional bonding.

Can breastmilk cause heartburn?

Breastfed babies are less likely to develop reflux and even if they do the intensity may be less severe. Mothers need to be counselled that breast milk is not causing reflux and breast milk is the best possible food for babies until they are six month old.