[Gatroesophageal reflux in pregnant women]

Abstract

Heartburn is a common symptom in pregnancy, affecting about two-thirds of pregnant women. The aetiology of gastro-oesophageal reflux in pregnancy is multifactorial. Reduced lower basal gastro-oesophageal sphincter pressure, increased intragastric pressure, delayed intestinal transit time and duodenogastric reflux have been found in pregnant women with heartburn, all factors which dispose to increased gastro-oesophageal reflux. Gastric emptying is apparently normal during pregnancy, but delayed during delivery. Therapy involves lifestyle modification and nonsystemic medication as the initial choices. H-2-antagonists should only be used in severe and refractory cases.