Why Do Women Experience Acid Reflux More Often?

Editor: dr. Andrew Octovianus Wijaya, Danastry Intan

Acid reflux or GERD can actually affect anyone, both men and women. However, many women feel that these symptoms occur more frequently, especially at certain times.

This condition occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus because the lower esophageal sphincter, the valve-like muscle at the bottom of the esophagus, becomes weak or does not close properly. Symptoms can include a burning sensation in the chest, nausea, bloating, throat discomfort, and a sour or bitter taste in the mouth.

So, why do women seem to be more "familiar" with acid reflux? Let’s take a closer look at the reasons!

1. Hormonal Changes
   One of the main reasons women may be more prone to acid reflux is hormonal fluctuation. During menstruation, pregnancy, or the period leading up to menopause, levels of hormones such as progesterone can change significantly.
   Progesterone can have the effect of relaxing the body’s smooth muscles—including the muscle that acts as the stomach valve. As a result, the valve may become looser and the stomach may empty more slowly. It is no wonder that before menstruation or during pregnancy, the stomach can feel more bloated, nauseous, and particularly sensitive to certain foods.
2. Pregnancy: Double Pressure on the Stomach
   Pregnancy is one of the phases when acid reflux is most likely to occur. In addition to the rise in progesterone, which relaxes the digestive muscles, the growing uterus also puts direct physical pressure on the abdominal area. This double pressure can essentially "squeeze" the stomach and push stomach acid upward.
3. Modern Lifestyle & Stress
   In addition, modern lifestyle factors such as stress, irregular eating schedules, lack of sleep, coffee consumption, spicy foods, fatty foods, or the habit of lying down immediately after eating can worsen symptoms.

Practical Solutions & Management

Although acid reflux is often experienced by women, it is not a "women-only condition." These symptoms can be a signal from the body that it is time to improve our daily lifestyle habits.

Here are some simple steps you can try:

• Adjust Your Eating Habits: Eat smaller portions more frequently, and avoid eating too quickly.
• Allow Time Before Sleeping: Do not go to bed immediately after eating. Allow 2–3 hours between your meal and bedtime.
• Manage Stress: Make time for rest and relaxation.

There are plenty of snacks available, but not many are truly healthy. Even fewer are both practical and made from carefully selected fruits. YA’Bar has a new variant, YA’Bar Very Bery, made with real baked berries and a higher oat content than other snack bars. It can also be an option for people with sensitive stomachs and may help keep you feeling full for longer. For those who are sensitive to acid reflux, consumption should still be adjusted according to each individual’s condition. Enjoy it in moderation, avoid overconsumption, and ideally do not eat it too close to bedtime.

Source:

• Progesterone Inhibitory Role on Gastrointestinal Motility (Alqudah et al., 2022)
• Heartburn in pregnancy (Vazquez et al., 2015)