What should you know about braxton hicks and heartburn?

Heartburn is a burning feeling behind the breastbone or in the upper throat caused by stomach contents moving upward. Pregnancy can make reflux more noticeable as the growing uterus and hormonal changes affect digestion. Acid reflux, a hiatus hernia, gastritis, or a peptic ulcer can also cause upper abdominal or chest discomfort.

Braxton Hicks contractions are temporary womb tightenings that may feel irregular and ease with rest, hydration, or a change of activity. They should not be assumed to explain chest burning. Severe, new, or unusual pain needs assessment, particularly when pregnancy is involved.

Try smaller meals, eat slowly, remain upright after eating, and avoid lying down soon after food. Notice whether spicy or fatty meals, citrus, coffee, or fizzy drinks trigger symptoms. For tightenings, rest, drink fluids, and observe whether they settle. Ask a maternity clinician or pharmacist before using antacids or acid reflux medication, especially during pregnancy.

Seek urgent help for crushing or severe chest pain, breathlessness, fainting, sweating, vomiting blood, black stools, or pain spreading to the arm or jaw. During pregnancy, contact maternity services promptly for regular painful tightenings, vaginal bleeding, fluid leakage, reduced fetal movement, or severe upper abdominal pain. Persistent heartburn also warrants review.

Does this feel more like reflux or a contraction? Which medicines are suitable in pregnancy? Could another digestive condition be contributing? When should I contact maternity services about tightenings or pain?