Does pre-eclampsia cause heartburn in pregnancy?

Pregnancy-related reflux can cause a burning feeling behind the breastbone, sour fluid in the mouth, or discomfort after meals. Pre-eclampsia can also cause upper abdominal or upper-right abdominal pain that may feel like indigestion or heartburn, especially when it is persistent or unusual for you.

The symptom needs context. Headache that does not settle, visual changes, sudden swelling, breathlessness, feeling very unwell, or reduced fetal movement can be warning signs requiring prompt assessment. Blood pressure and urine checks help clinicians evaluate pre-eclampsia.

Tell your maternity team about new, severe, persistent, or unfamiliar heartburn, particularly if it does not improve with the measures you normally use. Mention any headache, visual change, swelling, nausea, upper abdominal pain, or reduced fetal movement.

Use only pregnancy-appropriate medicines recommended by your clinician or pharmacist. Smaller meals, staying upright after eating, and avoiding foods that trigger reflux may help ordinary heartburn, but symptom relief should not delay assessment when warning signs are present.

Contact your maternity unit urgently for persistent heartburn with upper abdominal pain, severe headache, visual disturbance, sudden swelling, breathlessness, vomiting, or a strong sense that something is wrong. Seek emergency help for severe symptoms, collapse, chest pain, or difficulty breathing.

Reduced fetal movement also needs prompt maternity advice. Do not wait for a routine appointment when heartburn is accompanied by these features; pre-eclampsia can require assessment even if you have not noticed high blood pressure yourself.

Could my heartburn be reflux or upper abdominal pain related to pre-eclampsia? What blood-pressure and urine checks do I need? Which medicines are suitable in pregnancy, and which symptoms mean I should return immediately?