Reflux in der Schwangerschaft

Gastroesophageal reflux occurs often in pregnancy and is usually interpreted as being intrinsically related to pregnancy and thus not a “real disease.” If the reflux symptoms are inadequately cared for, then gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can have a severe affect on the quality of life of the pregnant woman. The main cause of reflux during pregnancy is a decrease in the lower esophageal sphincter tonus due to hormone level changes brought on by the pregnancy. Symptomatic GERD during pregnancy should be treated according to the step-up algorithm put forth by the European consensus meeting guidelines in 2003, starting with specific lifestyle changes. Antacids are the medication of first choice. Should the symptoms persist, then histamine-2 receptor antagonists can be given. Proton pump inhibitors are not recommended for pregnant women by the consensus meeting guidelines.