Acid Reflux Disorder is a chronic condition indicated by the rise of the digestive acids from the stomach to the esophagus, and without the natural protective mechanisms of the stomach, the esophagus will then be irritated and even damaged. The reflux is due to a dysfunctional or weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES) which is the valve that regulates the entrance of liquid and food to the stomach.

Several physiological conditions may cause the LES to relax abnormally or be weakened, causing acid reflux disorder. One common anatomical poisoning in the organs that may cause the condition is the protrusion of the stomach way up into the diaphragm. This can be manifested whenever a woman is pregnant with the growing fetus inside occupying. In fact, among the pregnant population, about 50% are said to have reported severe symptoms of acid reflux disorder. So if you or a loved one is currently expecting, be wary of the symptoms of the disorder.

Even without any history of acid reflux disorder, occurrences of the condition are fairly common especially in the second trimester onwards. Though the symptoms may cause much discomfort and even pain, most cases are totally harmless. Worries should be set aside as the manifestations will subside, if not completely vanished, after the baby is born.

By the time that the fetus has grown enough to crowd the abdomen, the stomach will then be pushed further into the esophagus disturbing the original positioning of the LES. But it is not only the pressure that the growth within the body that causes the symptoms to be triggered. There are also other factors or changes that occur in pregnant women that contributes to aggravating Acid Reflux Disorder.

Change in hormonal levels come with pregnancy. This alterations affects the body in many ways, among which is how the digestive tract functions. Though many foods have already been established as not good for acid reflux disorder, you may find that some in the list may trigger the symptoms or not. It is important to take note of which foods do set off the symptoms to avoid future irritation.

In pregnancy, the placenta secretes a hormone known as progesterone that causes the relaxation of the LES, leading to acid reflux disorder. With a relaxed LES, the mechanism of the valve malfunctions making every swallow not at sync with the opening up to let the food or liquid enter and closing up to prevent backflow of acid.

When experiencing any manifestations of Acid Reflux Disorder, it is important that you let your obstetrician know. By doing so, complications can be avoided and irritation and pain can be reduced.