In pregnancy, you must know what is safe and what is not when treating your GERD. Before your pregnancy you could try any one of the various alternative treatment available but extreme care during pregnancy is very important.

Homeopathy uses the concept of like heals like. The use of the drugs in homeopathy in pregnancy is questionable. Personally I think you should stay clear of these drugs. They have not undergone stringent testing expected in conventional drugs prescribed by your doctor. Even in most prescribed drugs the safety in pregnancy is not clear. This is because of the ethical issues using pregnant mums in trials.

Acupressure and acupuncture today uses sterile disposable needles to stimulate acupoints in the meridians of the body. Acupuncture is safe during pregnancy and does not injure the foetus. Acupuncture is used in many areas of treatment but I am not convinced there is any significant benefit in GERD.

Aromatherapy uses essential oils and reduces stress. This helps GERD because it is assumed that GERD sufferers have a high level of stress. It is not a proven therapy and some of the oils can be absorbed through the skin and reach the blood stream. In pregnancy do not use aromatherapy unless guided by your doctor.

Ayurvedic medicine uses a combination of herbs as part of a holistic approach to the treatment of GERD. These herbs have not been tested for safety in pregnancy. If you are considering using Ayurvedic treatment during pregnancy get professional help first. You can, however, use the other aspect of this treatment and avoid the herbs.

Dr. Phil Hariram.