
Saliva production during pregnancy is quite common, especially during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy or during morning sickness.
During pregnancy , the mother's body undergoes many changes and increased salivation is one of those changes. However, this situation will go away on its own in a few weeks, so pregnant women do not need to worry too much. To understand more about the reasons why pregnant mothers have this situation and how to deal with them, please read the following article of aFamilyToday Health .
Causes of increased salivation during pregnancy
Saliva production can be caused by an increase in saliva production or a decrease in the ability to swallow. Although the cause of salivation in pregnancy is not known, it can be:
Hormonal changes in the body during pregnancy
Severe vomiting or morning sickness during pregnancy
Pregnant mothers have heartburn during pregnancy
Smoking cigarettes during pregnancy
Pregnant mother suffers from a number of oral infections
Exposure to mercury or toxic chemicals in pesticides.
The human body produces about 1.5 liters of saliva per day. This helps the body neutralize stomach acid, fight off harmful bacteria, improve digestion and keep the oral cavity moist.
Treatment of increased salivation during pregnancy
If you are dealing with increased salivation during pregnancy, you should tell your doctor right away even if the condition is not too severe and doesn't affect your baby. Here are 8 ways to help you control saliva production:
1. If you are smoking while pregnant, quickly give up this habit. Smoking not only increases the production of saliva, but also seriously affects the health of both mother and baby.
2. If you often feel nauseous during pregnancy, you will need to see your doctor for the right medication to help manage the condition.
3. Some excessive salivation is caused by problems with the gums and mouth. You can see the dentist and take medication if absolutely necessary and does not affect the fetus.
4. You can sometimes chew sugar-free gum , suck on candy or mint to distract your mind. While this does not reduce saliva production, it will make it easier to swallow as you release it.
5. Avoid eating foods containing a lot of starches and carbohydrates. Divide a meal into several small meals.
6. Using natural mouthwash 3-4 times a day and brushing your teeth can also limit this.
7. Drinking plenty of water will help you swallow excess saliva secreting in your mouth.
8. Suck on an ice cube and your mouth will feel numb and make some saliva. You can also take a slice of lemon or ginger to prevent this.
Benefits of increased salivation during pregnancy
Although increased salivation is not a serious problem, it still makes you feel uncomfortable, especially if you are nauseous. However, you will be surprised by the following benefits of saliva production:
Saliva acts as an oral cavity lubricant
Helps balance acidity
Saliva produced in the mouth contains a number of enzymes that help break down food into small sugar molecules and aid in digestion
In addition, saliva is effective against bacteria, avoiding tooth decay.
If possible, swallow the saliva produced in your mouth. When you feel nauseous, you can spit out the saliva. However, by the third trimester, this condition will gradually decrease. Therefore, pregnant mothers should not worry too much.