Gas and heartburn in pregnancy: what to know

Pregnancy hormones can relax the muscle between the food pipe and stomach, allowing acidic contents to move upward and cause a burning sensation. They can also slow movement through the gut, which may increase trapped wind, fullness and belching. As the uterus grows, it can put additional pressure on the stomach, especially after a large meal or when lying down.

Heartburn is a symptom rather than a diagnosis. It may occur with acid reflux, while gastritis, a hiatus hernia or a peptic ulcer can also cause upper-abdominal discomfort. These conditions are not established by heartburn alone.

Try eating smaller meals more often, taking time to chew, and staying upright after eating. Avoid lying down soon after meals; raising the head of the bed may help night symptoms. Notice whether rich, spicy or acidic foods, fizzy drinks, caffeine or eating close to bedtime trigger discomfort, and reduce only the triggers that affect you.

Gentle movement can support digestion. Ask your maternity clinician or pharmacist before using an antacid or other acid reflux medication, because pregnancy, other medicines and the stage of pregnancy can affect the suitable choice. Do not stop prescribed treatment without advice.

Arrange medical advice if symptoms are persistent, severe, worsening, or interfering with eating or sleep. Seek urgent help for chest pressure, trouble breathing, fainting, vomiting blood, black stools, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, or difficulty swallowing. During pregnancy, contact your maternity team promptly for severe headache, visual changes, sudden swelling or pain beneath the ribs alongside feeling unwell.

Ask which medicines are suitable at your stage of pregnancy, whether your symptoms fit reflux, and whether another cause needs assessment. Bring a list of medicines and note when symptoms occur, what you ate, and whether you have vomiting or swallowing difficulty.