Foods to help with indigestion during pregnancy

Indigestion may cause upper-abdominal discomfort, fullness, belching, nausea, or burning after eating. Pregnancy hormones can slow digestion and relax the valve above the stomach; pressure from the growing uterus can add to symptoms. Acid reflux, gastritis, gallstones, an ulcer, or an infection can also cause similar discomfort, so ongoing or unusual symptoms deserve a review.

Choose porridge, rice, potatoes, vegetables, bananas, soup, yoghurt if tolerated, and lean protein in modest portions. Eat slowly and remain upright after meals. Reduce fried or very fatty foods, chilli, rich sauces, chocolate, mint, coffee, fizzy drinks, and acidic foods if they trigger you. Avoid eating close to bedtime and keep a note of meals and symptoms. Do not start herbal remedies or acid reflux medication without checking pregnancy suitability.

Tell your maternity clinician if indigestion is persistent, severe, associated with repeated vomiting, or makes it difficult to eat and drink. Seek urgent help for severe or localised abdominal pain, chest pressure, breathlessness, fainting, vomiting blood, black stools, yellowing of the skin, or difficulty swallowing. Pain after fatty meals that spreads to the back may need prompt assessment.

Could my symptoms fit reflux or another condition? Which medicines are suitable in pregnancy? Are there nutritional changes that can protect my intake while I avoid specific triggers?