Heartburn is something that many pregnant women will have to deal with. This is even the case for some that do not have a history of having heartburn. As a result of the sensitive nature of pregnancy, not all heartburn medications can be used. This is why many pregnant women and people ask if Tums antacids can be used. We have the right answer to this question here. So read on to find out.
What Causes Heartburn during Pregnancy?
A reflux activity in the body is primarily responsible for heartburn during pregnancy. Certain hormones trigger body changes during pregnancy. The experience of heartburn is one of such changes for many pregnant women. The reason is the relaxation of the valve at the stomach’s entrance.
This valve is meant to contain acid contents in the stomach and stop them from moving back up to the esophagus – reflux. The reflux action caused by the failure of the stomach’s valve to do this is responsible for heartburn.
Just so you know, pregnancy can usher in other uncomfortable feelings other than this. For example, most pregnant women start to feel hot during pregnancy as well.
Can Women Take Tums Antacids to Relieve Heartburn While Pregnant?
Tums antacids can be used by pregnant women that have heartburn issues. As an antacid, it contains ingredients that are capable of providing heartburn relief. But especially as important for pregnant women, it contains ingredients that will not cause harm to the pregnant women and the growing baby or babies.
Primarily, calcium carbonate is the ingredient used to make Tums antacids and it is not bad for use during pregnancy. Other than how safe it is, it even contains properties that provide further benefits. This is why it is an antacid brand recommended even by medical professionals.
But as with other good medications, Tums antacids should be used solely as a medication. In other words, excessive amounts should not be used. This is especially considering how it comes in the form of tasty chewy bites. Just the ideal dosage should be used.
On the sidelines, we should also mention the need for due screening during pregnancy. This is to know the health state of the mother and baby or babies. For example, it can help detect a baby with genetic conditions like Trisomy 21 and several other things. So, make sure prenatal testing is taken seriously during pregnancy.
Dangers of Abusing Tums Antacids
We cannot stress enough the need to stick with the right dosage of this drug. If you feel the need to use a lot more because of your heartburn issue, you should first consult with your doctor. This is to avoid the dangers of excessive use of calcium and other ingredients in Tums antacid. Some of the symptoms if this rule is not adhered to include:
- Constipation
- Poor zinc & iron nutrient absorption in the body
- Kidney stones that can affect the health of the kidney
In light of this, Tums antacids and every other ideal antacid during pregnancy should be used moderately. Once again, your healthcare service provider should be consulted for guided opinions if you have to use more than you normally should.
And speaking of dangers, the odds are even more when you use antacids that are not ideal during pregnancy. These are the sorts that have ingredients such as:
- Aspirin
- Aluminum
- Magnesium trisilicate
- Bismuth subsalicylate
- Sodium bicarbonate
Mind you, there are other unsafe ingredients other than the ones listed above. For example, other forms of magnesium (like magnesium sulfate) can be harmful. This is especially when used consistently.
So, safeguard your health (as a pregnant woman) and that of your baby by only using the right antacid brand products. This is also a general rule to be adhered to. So, be mindful of any over-the-counter medication that you use (especially during pregnancy). Furthermore, the right foods should be consumed during pregnancy.
Conclusion
Tums antacid is one of the antacids that can be used for heartburn relief during pregnancy. This is unless a trained and qualified healthcare service provider says otherwise. But as you have also read here, it should be used moderately. You can visit the International Health Alliance sexuality section for more information to help during pregnancy.
