Final answer:
Elevated gastrin secretion by the mother in the last trimester may cause gastric reflux or heartburn in the infant. The growing uterus applies pressure on the stomach, and hormonal changes can lead to relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter, contributing to reflux symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Increased gastrin secretion by the mother in the last trimester of pregnancy may lead to the infant developing a condition called gastritis or gastrointestinal reflux. Gastrin plays a significant role in the digestive system by stimulating gastric acid secretions.
During the last trimester of pregnancy, elevated gastrin levels can lead to increased gastric acid, which may contribute to gastric reflux, or heartburn, due to the growing uterus putting pressure on the stomach. It is also important to note that changes in hormone levels during pregnancy, such as elevated progesterone, can cause relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter, contributing to the likelihood of reflux.
Additionally, the upward pressure from the enlarging uterus may contribute to heartburn by altering the angle between the esophagus and the stomach, facilitating the backflow of stomach contents.