Study of prevalence and risk factors for gastroesophageal reflux in pregnancy at a tertiary care hospital

 

 

Abstract              Background: Gastroesophageal reflux develops in 30 to 50% of pregnant women but the incidence may be as high as 80% in some patient groups. GERD tend to recur with subsequent pregnancies and affects multiparous and nulliparous women similarly. Pregnancy may precipitate or worsen GERD symptoms. Present study was aimed to assess prevalence and risk factors for gastroesophageal reflux in pregnancy in patients at a tertiary care center. Material and Methods: Present prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted pregnant women with symptoms and history of GERD, completed first trimester and willing for follow up were included in study. Results: During study period total 986 antenatal women were interviewed for GERD symptoms. Total 365 patients had GERD symptoms (prevalence of GERD– 37%) . After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, total 280 patients were included in present study. 21-25 years was most common age group in present study(48 %). Regurgitation (88 %) was more common symptom than heartburn (67 %) in present study. Pregestational heartburn was present in 34 % patients. 69 % out of 163 patients, who had delivered earlier have history of GERD in previous pregnancies. Family history was noted in 35 %. Smoking was noted in 3% patients. Globus sensation (45 %) was most common atypical symptom in present study. 37 % patents responded to dietary and lifestyle modifications alone, 42 % needed addition of antacids while 21 % required dietary and lifestyle modifications, antacids and PPIs. Conclusion: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is more prevalent in pregnancy as compared to general population. Early identification of symptoms, lifestyle and dietary modifications can easily reduce symptoms.

Key Words: Gastroesophageal reflux disease, prevalence, pregnancy