How to Get Rid of Trapped Wind Quickly
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If you're currently making a human, you'll be (painfully) aware that a few things can take a turn for the less pleasant, from a digestion point of view. Tidal waves of nausea, constipation, flatulence. Truly, it's a party for everybody.
One issue that can keep coming up when you're expecting is trapped wind in pregnancy. If you're dealing with intense stomach cramps and pain, as well as the symptoms mentioned above, then it's likely something you're dealing with.
So, why does this festival of fun happen? Does it all get worse as your pregnancy progresses? And is there anything you can do to help yourself out?
WH tapped up an expert for the answers.
Is trapped wind common in pregnancy?
It is. 'The main reason that women suffer with trapped wind during pregnancy is due to progesterone,' says Mr Pat O'Brien, a Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at University College London Hospitals.
'Progesterone [which your body creates to thicken the lining of your uterus, to get prepare your body for pregnancy] is one of the main pregnancy hormones, made by the placenta,' Mr O'Brien explains.
So, what's that got to do with trapped wind? Well. 'One of its many effects is to relax the bowel.' Oh. 'This means that the bowel is much slower to move along food and gas, leading to trapped wind and constipation, which are very common complaints in pregnant women.'
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Does trapped wind get worse in later pregnancy?
Indeed. As your foetus grows, so too does the pressure in your whole abdominal area. Which isn't a shock: you are accommodating a whole bigger load in there, all of a sudden.
'Physical obstruction of the bowel due to the growing uterus may also play a part,' elaborates Mr O'Brien, 'particularly in later pregnancy. But the main culprit is still progesterone.'
How do you get rid of trapped wind when pregnant?
Sadly, there's not heaps you can do about your progesterone levels – sorry. But there are a few lifestyle tweaks you can try, that work for trapped wind more generally. Mr O'Brien advises trying:
- Eating little and often, rather than big meals. Gulping a lot of air when you have your dinner can cause trapped wind. Chew slowly and take your time
- Get exercise, 'even a decent walk,' to encourage movement
- Drink peppermint tea, which can help to soothe the situation
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Claudia Canavan As digital Beauty and Health Editor, with an MA in Magazine Journalism, Claudia is a devotee of natural, organic and cruelty-free skincare and of nurturing a banging mind-body connection.
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How to Get Rid of Trapped Wind Quickly
Source: https://www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/health/female-health/a26866851/trapped-wind-in-pregnancy/