Instant Home Remedies for Gas During Pregnancy

 

 Table of Contents

 

- Introduction

- Causes of Gas During Pregnancy

  - Hormonal Changes

    - Progesterone

    - Relaxin

    - Estrogen

  - Digestive Changes

    - Slowed Digestion

    - Constipation

    - Bacterial Imbalance

  - Dietary Causes

    - Dairy

    - High Fiber Foods

    - Fruits and Veggies

    - Fried, Fatty Foods

    - Artificial Sweeteners

    - Carbonated Beverages 

- Tips to Prevent Gas During Pregnancy

  - Eat Slowly and Chew Thoroughly

  - Limit Portion Sizes

  - Avoid Specific Gas-Causing Foods

  - Stay Hydrated with Water

  - Incorporate Gentle Exercise

  - Take Probiotic Supplements

  - Maintain Good Posture

- Instant Home Remedies for Gas Relief

  - Walking or Light Exercise

  - Drinking Warm Beverages

    - Chamomile Tea

    - Ginger Tea

    - Peppermint Tea

  - Over-the-Counter Medications

    - Simethicone

    - Activated Charcoal Capsules

  - Essential Oils

    - Peppermint Oil

    - Lavender Oil

    - Fennel Oil

  - Applying Heat

    - Heating Pad

    - Hot Water Bottle

    - Warm Compress

  - Abdominal Massage

  - Yoga Poses and Stretches 

  - Passing Gas Freely 

- When to See a Doctor 

- Conclusion

- FAQs

 

 Introduction

 

Gas, bloating, and abdominal discomfort are very common complaints during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters when hormone changes and physical pressure from the expanding uterus worsen🤰. Up to 80% of pregnant women experience increased gas, burping, bloating, and flatulence due to normal bodily changes that occur to accommodate the growing baby.

 

While dealing with excessive and painful gas can be uncomfortable, the good news is there are many safe, fast-acting home remedies that can provide quick relief from gas and its embarrassing symptoms. This comprehensive guide will discuss all the leading causes of gas during pregnancy, useful prevention tips, and most importantly, explore over a dozen instant home remedies that every mom-to-be should know to alleviate painful gas immediately!🏡

 

From walking after meals, sipping on ginger tea, using essential oils, applying a heating pad, massage, yoga stretches, and simply passing gas freely, you'll be armed with plenty of simple, natural ways to beat gas fast during pregnancy. Read on to learn how to safely prevent and find rapid relief from pregnancy gas right in the comfort of your home!

 

 Causes of Gas During Pregnancy

 

There are several contributing factors that cause expectant mothers to suffer from increased gas pains and bloating compared to their pre-pregnancy days. Learning what causes excess gas can help you find ways to prevent it.

 

 Hormonal Changes

 

Hormonal fluctuations are the number one cause of increased gas during pregnancy. Higher levels of hormones like progesterone, relaxin, and estrogen slow down the muscular contractions that move food through the gut. This delayed "transit time" allows more time for gas-producing bacteria to break down undigested food particles, releasing gases like carbon dioxide, methane, and hydrogen - the main culprits behind burps, bloating, and flatulence.🤰

 

 Progesterone 

 

Progesterone levels steadily rise during pregnancy, and this hormone is known to cause relaxation of smooth muscle tissue. This includes the muscles of the intestinal wall and digestive tract. The slowed contractions lead to constipation and bloating. Progesterone also relaxes the esophageal sphincter, allowing increased gas reflux upwards through belching.

 

 Relaxin

 

The hormone relaxin also lives up to its name, causing relaxation of ligaments and muscles throughout the pelvis and digestive organs. This compounds the slowing effects of progesterone. More time for food to sit in the intestines means more gas production.

 

 Estrogen

 

Rising estrogen during pregnancy can contribute to heartburn and acid reflux, which increases swallowing of air and gas pain. Estrogen may also alter gut bacteria populations in ways that promote more gas.

 

 Digestive Changes

 

Aside from hormonal impacts, the expanding uterus also triggers mechanical changes in the digestion:

 

 Slowed Digestion

 

As the uterus grows larger, especially after 20 weeks gestation, it puts physical pressure on the intestines and stomach. This slows the passage of food through the gut, again allowing more time for gas production.

 

 Constipation 

 

Pressure from the uterus can kink the large intestines, making it harder to pass stool. Approximately 40% of pregnant women suffer from constipation. Built-up stool allows pathogens and bacteria to overgrow, releasing more gas.

 

 Bacterial Imbalance

 

Hormones and slowed digestion alter the populations of microbes in the gut microbiome. Different strains of bacteria produce different amounts of gases as they break down food. More gas-producers leads to increased bloating.

 

 Dietary Causes

 

Diet and food intolerances also play a major role in gas during pregnancy. As women experience more cravings and aversions for various foods, their diet composition often shifts, impacting the amount of fermentable carbs reaching the colon.

 

 Dairy

 

Lactose intolerance can worsen during pregnancy, making it harder to digest milk sugars. This causes bloating, cramps, and flatulence after consuming dairy products. The effects get worse as pregnancy progresses.

 

 High Fiber Foods

 

While fiber is healthy, it is indigestible and ferments in the colon. Gas increases after eating beans, cruciferous vegetables, nuts, bran, etc. Fiber draws in water, making stools bulkier, which can also increase abdominal discomfort.

 

 Fruits and Veggies

 

Even without added fiber, produce naturally contains fructose, inulin, raffinose, and other oligosaccharides that can be difficult to break down and thus get fermented into gas. Some fruits have natural laxative effects as well.

 

 Fried, Fatty Foods

 

Fatty and fried foods take longer to digest. They can impair stomach emptying and stimulate the gut to produce more mucus, which bacteria feed on to produce gases.

 

 Artificial Sweeteners 

 

Sugar replacements like xylitol, sorbitol, and maltitol can have a laxative effect, speeding digestion and leading to gas or loose stools.

 

 Carbonated Beverages

 

The bubbles in soda and sparkling drinks is carbon dioxide gas. Gulping it down introduces excess air into the digestive tract that eventually has to come back out!

 

 Tips to Prevent Gas During Pregnancy

 

While some gas is inevitable during pregnancy, you can take steps to lower the amount of gas your body produces and minimize uncomfortable symptoms:

 

 Eat Slowly and Chew Thoroughly

 

Wolfing down food quickly swallows more air into the digestive tract, which eventually leads to gas pain. Take smaller bites, put your fork down between bites, and chew each mouthful 15-20 times to aid digestion. Smaller food particles are more easily broken down by gut bacteria. 

 

 Limit Portion Sizes 

 

Overloading your stomach can lead to indigestion and a buildup of fermentable compounds that create excessive gas. Listen to your body's fullness cues and stop eating before you feel stuffed. Spread meals into 5-6 mini-meals rather than 3 large ones if needed.

 

 Avoid Specific Gas-Causing Foods

 

Keep a food journal to identify problem items that worsen your gas, such as beans, dairy, cruciferous veggies, fatty foods, etc. Limit foods high in fructans and galactans as they are poorly absorbed short chain carbohydrates that fuel gas production.

 

 Stay Hydrated with Water

 

Sipping warm water during and after meals helps digestion run smoothly. Aim for 10 cups of fluids daily. Staying hydrated softens stool and prevents constipation, which reduces bloating. Avoid drinking during meals though, as it can fill you up prematurely.

 

 Incorporate Gentle Exercise

 

Light aerobic exercise promotes motility in the intestines to reduce gas buildup and constipation. Try walking or swimming regularly, especially after meals. Certain yoga poses also encourage the movement of gas out of the body.

 

 Take Probiotic Supplements

 

Probiotics support healthy gut flora, improve digestion, and reduce inflammation in the gut. Ask your OB-GYN to recommend a high-quality pregnancy-safe probiotic. Consume them daily.

 

 Maintain Good Posture 

 

Slouching and caving your abdomen compress the stomach, which can force air upwards and make you swallow more. Sit and stand tall to allow your digestive organs room to work properly.

 

 Instant Home Remedies for Gas Relief

 

If you feel bloated and gassy, try these proven home remedies for fast relief:

 

 Walking or Light Exercise

 

One of the simplest and most effective ways to quickly dislodge trapped gas bubbles is through motion. Take a 10–15-minute brisk walk outdoors or march in place to release gas quickly. Any repetitive body movement will encourage the natural downward movement of gas through the intestines. The motion massages the colon to propel gas outwards - take advantage of gravity and allow yourself to pass gas freely during the activity!

 

 Drinking Warm Beverages

 

Sipping on warm teas, broths, and water can provide soothing relief for a gassy, distended belly. The gentle heat helps relax the smooth muscle of the gut to release tightness and trapped gas. Slowly drink 1-2 cups and avoid gulping the liquid too quickly, which introduces air. The best teas for gas relief are:

 

 Chamomile Tea

 

Chamomile contains anti-inflammatory compounds called flavonoids that reduce swelling in the gut lining associated with bloating. Chamomile's antispasmodic properties also relax the involuntary constrictions of intestinal muscles to ease cramps and release gas buildup.

 

 Ginger Tea 

 

The compounds shogaol and gingerol give ginger its potent anti-inflammatory abilities to calm an upset stomach. Ginger root also reduces intestinal cramping to pass gas more easily. Try steeping fresh grated ginger in hot water for 5-10 minutes for best results.

 

 Peppermint Tea

 

Peppermint is an age-old remedy for digestive woes due to its ability to relax intestinal smooth muscle spasms that lead to gas pain. Menthol in peppermint also helps gas pains by allowing muscles to loosen up. Use dried peppermint leaves to brew tea.

 

 Over-the-Counter Medications

 

When used occasionally, these OTC meds can provide quick relief:

 

 Simethicone

 

Drugs like Gas-X contain the anti-foaming agent simethicone to break up trapped bubbles of gas in the gut so they can easily escape. Avoid long-term use.

 

 Activated Charcoal Capsules

 

Activated charcoal supplements work by trapping intestinal gas inside its millions of pores and carrying it out of the body. Take between meals on an empty stomach and drink plenty of water. Check with your OB first.

 

 Essential Oils 

 

The aromatic compounds in essential oils provide cooling or warming sensations that can ease bloating when applied topically. Always properly dilute oils before using during pregnancy. Helpful options are:

 

 Peppermint Oil

 

Peppermint oil contains menthol which provides an instant cooling effect. Massage diluted peppermint oil on the abdomen or add a drop or two to warm bathwater to relieve gas pressure.

 

 Lavender Oil

 

The sweet floral scent of lavender oil triggers relaxation and helps soothe intestinal muscles. For best results, add 5 drops of lavender oil to a warm bath or diluted carrier oil.

 

 Fennel Oil

 

Like the fennel seed spice, fennel essential oil has carminative properties that allow the intestines to release gas buildup. Mix a diluted fennel oil massage blend.

 

 Applying Heat

 

Warmth applied to the abdomen creates a heating sensation that helps relax rigid abdominal muscles trapping gas inside. Try these heating methods:

 

 Heating Pad

 

Lay a heating pad set to low directly on your bloated abdomen for 15-20 minutes at a time to allow gas to escape. The heat helps the gut relax.

 

 Hot Water Bottle

 

Fill a hot water bottle with warm (not scalding) water and hold it against your stomach, lower abdomen or back to relieve pressure.

 

 Warm Compress

 

Soak a clean towel in hot water, wring out excess liquid and then place the warm, damp towel on your distended belly as needed. Reheat it when the compress cools.

 

 Abdominal Massage 

 

A gentle abdominal massage can help manually move trapped pockets of air downward through the intestines to provide relief from bloating and cramps. Use a few drops of diluted lavender or peppermint essential oil to enhance the massage.

 

Apply light, downward-sweeping strokes starting from up under your rib cage down towards the pelvis and hips. Move slowly and gently - you shouldn't apply strong pressure. A soothing touch will relax tight muscles and coax stubborn gas out.

 

 Yoga Poses and Stretches

 

Certain inverted yoga positions and gentle twists allow gravity to help move gas bubbles downward through the digestive tract for release. They also encourage proper posture and realignment of the gut. Avoid positions that involve intense abdominal compressions or contractions. Recommended yoga poses for gas relief include:

 

- Cat Cow Pose

- Child's Pose

- Wind Removing Pose

- Legs up the Wall

- Knees to Chest

- Reclined Bound Angle

 

 Passing Gas Freely  

 

While it may seem embarrassing, the single best thing you can do for instant gas relief is to simply allow yourself to pass gas whenever the urge strikes! Give yourself permission to let it go freely rather than trying to hold it in. The restroom is the ideal place for privacy, or do so discreetly during exercise when outward noises would be muffled. Suppressing gas can lead to bloating, pain, and cramping, so let it out.

 

 When to See a Doctor

 

Occasional gas and bloating is normal during pregnancy. However, you should contact your doctor or seek medical care if you experience:

 

- Severe or persistent abdominal pain

- Vomiting lasting more than 12 hours

- Bloody stool or black, tarry stool

- Constipation with no bowel movement in 3 or more days

- Signs of dehydration - dizziness, dark urine, rapid heart rate

- Fever over 100°F with abdominal pain

- Regular contractions or cramping along with gas pain

- Any concerning or severe symptoms

 

While home remedies can provide relief for common gas, any of the above symptoms can indicate a more serious underlying condition requiring medical treatment, like a bowel obstruction, kidney stone, gallstone, appendicitis, or preterm labor. It's always better to err on the side of caution with pregnancy.

 

 Conclusion

 

Coping with excessive and painful gas, bloating, belching and flatulence is a very common - yet uncomfortable - problem many pregnant women face as their bodies change to accommodate their growing baby.☺️

 

Hormonal impacts like increased progesterone, estrogen, and relaxin all play a major role in slowing digestion and increasing intestinal gas during pregnancy. The expanding uterus also contributes physical pressure and constipation that worsens gas symptoms in the mid to late trimesters. Diet can also aggravate gas.

 

Luckily, with the numerous instant home remedies covered in this article, you now have a comprehensive toolbox of safe, fast-acting ways to relieve painful gas quickly using simple items like herbal teas, essential oils, OTC meds, warmth, massage, exercise, stretches, and proper positioning of your gut. While some gas is inevitable, these handy remedies will help provide prompt relief so you can go back to enjoying your pregnancy!😊

 

 FAQs

 

What foods should you avoid to reduce gas during pregnancy?

 

Foods that commonly cause gas and bloating are dairy products, beans, lentils, cruciferous veggies, onions, garlic, high fiber cereals, sugary foods, fried or fatty foods, soda, apples, pears, broccoli, cauliflower, and foods with sugar alcohols.

 

Can gas pains feel like contractions or preterm labor?

 

Sometimes it can be difficult to differentiate bad gas pain from contractions, especially in the 3rd trimester as the uterus expands. Time the pains - true contractions occur at regular intervals, increase in intensity, and aren't relieved by stretching or changing positions. Gas pain is more sporadic and may be eased by moving or passing gas.

 

What yoga poses are safe during pregnancy to relieve gas?

 

Safe poses for gas relief are cat/cow, child's pose, wind-relieving pose, knees-to-chest, legs up the wall, supported bridge, and reclined bound angle pose. Avoid poses lying flat on your back, intense twists, and extreme stretching or flexing of the abdomen.

 

Which essential oils are NOT considered safe during pregnancy?

 

Essential oils that should be avoided in pregnancy include rosemary, clary sage, wintergreen, cinnamon, clove, thyme, aniseed, cumin, sweet basil, mugwort, Spanish lavender, and sage. Discontinue use of any oil if skin irritation develops.

 

What causes hormonal changes in pregnancy that lead to more gas?

 

The hormones progesterone, relaxin, and estrogen are produced in high amounts during pregnancy. Progesterone and relaxin cause muscles like those in the intestinal wall to relax, slowing digestion so food stays in the gut longer producing gas. Estrogen contributes to acid reflux increasing air swallowing.

 

Why does the expanding uterus cause gas pain during pregnancy?

 

As the uterus grows larger, especially after 20 weeks, it puts direct physical pressure on the intestines and stomach. This slows or blocks the normal muscular contractions that propel food through the digestive tract, allowing more time for gas-producing microbes to release gases that contribute to bloating and flatulence.

 

The expanding uterus can also partially obstruct the large intestine, making it difficult to pass stool. Built up stool allows gas-producing bacteria to proliferate. The uterus may also apply pressure to the rectum, making it feel like you can't fully evacuate gas, which contributes to discomfort.

 

In the third trimester, the uterus has expanded to the point where it pushes up against the diaphragm. This can make it feel difficult to take deep breaths, while also limiting how much the lungs can expand. This impairs your ability to breathe out and exhale gas that accumulates.

 

When should you take simethicone during pregnancy for immediate gas relief?

 

Simethicone can provide quick relief for painful gas episodes during pregnancy. The recommended dosage is 125 to 300 milligrams taken with a full glass of water up to four times per day. The effects start working within 30 minutes up to 1 hour.

 

Take simethicone immediately when you feel symptoms of gas pain like uncomfortable bloating, abdominal pressure, or cramping. Try taking it about 15-30 minutes before meals prone upsetting your digestion as well.

 

While simethicone is considered pregnancy-safe, don't take it routinely for longer than a week unless approved by your obstetrician. Avoid gassy foods and stay hydrated as well when taking simethicone.

 

What is the best sleeping position to prevent gas pain at night during pregnancy?

 

Sleeping on your left side with knees bent is the optimal position to minimize gas pain at night during pregnancy. This position:

 

- Takes pressure off the vena cava to improve circulation

- Prevents the heavy uterus from compressing the intestines

- Optimizes blood flow to the placenta and kidneys

- Reduces acid reflux symptoms that can cause gas

 

You may need extra pillows for support. If you start on your left side but wake up on your back, try using a pillow under one side to stay tilted. Avoid sleeping completely flat on your back, which maximizes pressure.

 

When do gas pains typically start during pregnancy?

 

Many women begin noticing more burping, bloating, and gas pain around 16-20 weeks into pregnancy. This coincides with the initial rapid expansion of the uterus up out of the pelvis which starts putting pressure on the intestines and digestive organs.

 

However, some women experience digestive issues like gas within the first trimester due to fluctuating hormones like progesterone slowing digestion very early on. The worst gas pain typically occurs during the second half of the third trimester as the uterus reaches peak size.

 

Is warm lemon water good for relieving gas during pregnancy?

 

Yes, drinking warm lemon water can help provide relief from gas and bloating during pregnancy. The warm liquid provides a soothing effect and helps relax tight digestive muscles trapping gas bubbles.

 

Lemon contains the compound limonene which helps induce the gastrointestinal tract to expel gas. The citric acid encourages production of stomach acids to improve digestion and vitamin C fights inflammation that contributes to gas pain. Drink slowly to avoid gulping air.

 

How much ginger should you take daily to reduce gas during pregnancy?

 

Up to 1 gram of ginger root per day, taken in divided doses, is considered safe and effective for relieving gas and nausea during pregnancy. This equates to:

 

- 1/4 tsp powdered ginger

- 2-4 cups ginger tea

- 1 inch knob of fresh ginger, grated into food or tea

 

Take ginger with food to avoid acidic irritation to the stomach. Do not exceed the recommended dosage due to concerns over uterine stimulant effects at high amounts. Inform your physician if taking ginger supplements.