Insomnia During Pregnancy

Here are some tips to help reduce acid reflux:

- Don't eat large meals, especially late at night. Eat smaller meals during the day and have your last meal at least two hours before you get into bed.

- Avoid foods and drinks that you know give you heartburn. Those that cause heartburn most often include tomato-based products, spicy foods, fatty and fried foods, carbonated drinks, orange and grapefruit juice, mints and chocolates.

- Chew sugarless gum. It stimulates saliva production, which can neutralize stomach acid.

- Use pillows to prop yourself up in bed.

- Try to keep your weight gain within the limits recommended by your doctor or midwife.

- Don't smoke, and avoid alcohol (which you should avoid anyway for the health of your baby).

Use over-the-counter antacids in moderation. Choose those that contain magnesium or calcium. They are the safest. However, don't exceed recommended doses. If you are unsure about how much you can take per day, contact your doctor, nurse, or midwife for advice.

If you are not able to control acid reflux with these changes, acid-blocking medications are available over-the-counter and by prescription. Ask your doctor, nurse, or midwife before taking anything stronger than antacids.

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