Pregnancy Salivation
During the long wait while expecting their bundle of joy most women knit dreams, think of names for their little one and drool over adorable pictures of babies. But in most cases the drooling occurs in the literal sense too. Most women experience excess salivation during pregnancy and this could be attributed to hormonal changes. The surplus secretion of saliva varies among women; some women salivate abundantly in the first and last trimester whereas others endure it throughout their pregnancy period. Though most women find it quite unappetizing it is quite benign in nature. Excessive salivation is called ptyalism or sialorrhea and is more common among women suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum, a severe form of morning sickness. The nauseating feeling also renders an overdose of saliva.
Heartburn which is a common occurrence during pregnancy can be a leading cause for the profuse secretion of saliva. The acidic contents of the stomach tend to burn the esophagus; this stimulates the acid sensors in the esophagus to trigger salivary glands to produce saliva that has an increased concentration of alkaline bicarbonates. The gastric acids are neutralized by the alkaline saliva, hence reducing the burning sensation. The body also tends to produce excess saliva when it is dehydrated.
Factors like smoke tend to irritate the body leading to salivation. Salivation increases due to certain oral ailments and infections too. Exposure to toxins like pesticides and mercury can also result in abundant salivation. Profuse salivation could also occur due to certain prescribed medication or also due to some medical conditions.
In case the overdose of saliva is due to heartburn one can combat it with antacids. Drinking milk is a home remedy which various other women resort to and eating small and frequent meals is always great to avoid acidity. Drinking a lot of water is advisable to prevent the body from getting dehydrated. Brushing the teeth frequently in a day helps battle this condition. Many women have a fun way of combating this situation by sucking on candy or chewing gum.
It is interesting to note that besides neutralizing gastric acid, saliva performs a lot of other important functions, including lubricating the mouth and producing enzymes that aid in digestion. Moreover it also contains proteins with antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties that help protect the teeth and mouth. Hence abundant salivation is quite beneficial.
The pregnancy phase is filled with various side-effects, bouts of nausea, mood swings, excessive salivation and constipation. But the joy of holding your very own baby is way too exhilarating and worth every side-effect.
