Heartburn during pregnancy: what to know

Heartburn is a burning feeling behind the breastbone, sometimes with a sour taste or fluid rising into the throat. Pregnancy hormones can relax the valve between the food pipe and stomach, while the growing uterus can increase pressure on the stomach. Similar symptoms can occur with Acid Reflux, Gastritis, Hiatus Hernia, or a Peptic Ulcer, so repeated symptoms should not be self-diagnosed. Chest pressure, breathlessness, sweating, or pain spreading to the arm or jaw is not typical heartburn.

Try smaller meals, eat slowly, remain upright after eating, and avoid lying down soon after a meal. Notice whether fatty, spicy, acidic, or late-night foods trigger symptoms. Raise the upper body for sleep if your maternity clinician agrees, and choose comfortable clothing around the abdomen. Ask a pharmacist, midwife, or doctor before taking an antacid or other medicine: pregnancy, other medicines, and kidney or digestive problems affect what is suitable. Do not start Acid Reflux Medication without checking its ingredients and timing.

Seek urgent care for severe chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, vomiting blood, black stools, or difficulty swallowing. Contact your maternity team promptly for severe upper-abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, a severe headache, vision changes, sudden swelling, or feeling very unwell, because these symptoms may need assessment beyond reflux. Arrange a routine review if symptoms are frequent, disrupt sleep, or do not improve with simple measures.

Which medicines are suitable at my stage of pregnancy? Could another digestive problem explain these symptoms? What changes should prompt maternity assessment, and how should I take any recommended treatment?