Gynecologist prescribes water to tackle indigestion during pregnancy

A Benin-based gynecologist, Dr Iwinosa Ehigiator, has advised pregnant women to always  drink more water in order to tackle indigestion.

Ehigiator told the News Agency of Nigeria in Benin City on Thursday that indigestion is common among pregnant women.

“It can manifest in the form of heartburn; it can be caused by hormonal changes, or because the growing baby is pressing against the stomach.

“The condition can be a source of discomfort to them, it can also be tackled by change of diet and lifestyle,” he said.

He listed some of the symptoms to include:  heartburn, regurgitation, burping, feeling heavy, bloated and feeling of illness.

The medical practitioner also said that pregnant women could experience indigestion when they eat heavy meals, high-fat foods, chocolates, and caffeinated beverages.

According to him, indigestion can also occur when pregnant women indulge in physical activities after eating.

He urged them to be cautious of foods and drinks that trigger indigestion, saying, “they have to avoid foods and drinks that cause them indigestion during pregnancy.”

“At the early stage, it is mild and may be caused by changes in hormone levels, in the second or third trimester, it becomes more common, may be because the baby pushes up against the stomach,” he said.