Heartburn during the third trimester

In late pregnancy, the stomach has less room as the uterus grows. Hormonal relaxation of the valve above the stomach can also let contents move back into the food pipe. Burning, sour regurgitation or throat irritation may be worse after a large meal, when bending, or at night. These features are consistent with [Heartburn](/symptoms/heartburn/), a symptom that may accompany [Acid Reflux](/conditions/acid-reflux/) without proving a diagnosis.

Try smaller, more frequent meals and avoid eating close to bedtime. Sit upright after meals and choose a sleeping position recommended by your maternity team. Keep water nearby, but avoid using drinks or remedies that reliably trigger symptoms for you. Ask before taking any medicine, including products marketed as natural. A pharmacist can check interactions and pregnancy suitability; your clinician may recommend an option from [Acid Reflux Medication](/treatments/medical-management/acid-reflux-medication/).

Tell your maternity team if heartburn is severe, new, frequent, or preventing food, fluids or sleep. Urgent assessment is needed for crushing or severe chest pain, breathlessness, fainting, blood in vomit, black stools or difficulty swallowing. Do not dismiss severe upper abdominal pain, headache, visual symptoms or sudden swelling as ordinary reflux.

Could my symptoms be affected by my position or medicines? Which treatment can I use at this stage? Do I need assessment for another cause, such as [Hiatus Hernia](/conditions/hiatus-hernia/) or [Gastritis](/conditions/gastritis/)?