What combination of physical and hormonal factors during pregnancy contributes to relaxing the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES)?
Answer
The growing uterus putting physical pressure and hormonal changes relaxing the LES
The development of acid reflux symptoms during pregnancy is attributed to a dual mechanism involving both physical mechanics and internal chemical changes. Physically, as the uterus expands during gestation, it exerts increasing downward pressure onto the stomach. Concurrently, pregnancy involves significant hormonal shifts, which include the effect of hormones causing the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to relax. This combination—physical upward pressure from the uterus and chemical relaxation of the valve—creates an environment highly conducive to stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus.
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