What can you take for heartburn in pregnancy?

Heartburn is reflux of stomach contents into the food pipe. Pregnancy-related hormone changes and pressure in the abdomen can make it more common. Treatment depends on how often symptoms occur, how severe they are, your pregnancy history, and any medicines or health conditions. A pharmacist can check the product ingredients and timing; do not assume that a product labelled natural is suitable.

Tell the clinician if you have trouble swallowing, persistent vomiting, or pain that feels different from usual burning. Those symptoms may need assessment rather than self-treatment.

Start with smaller meals, slower eating, avoiding personal triggers, and remaining upright after meals. If these measures are not enough, ask which antacid or reflux medicine is appropriate and how to space it from other medicines or supplements. Use only the recommended amount and follow the label or professional instructions. Keep a list of products you take, including vitamins and herbal preparations.

Contact your maternity clinician if symptoms are persistent, worsening, or stopping you from eating or sleeping. Seek prompt advice for severe upper abdominal pain, severe headache, vision changes, sudden swelling, or feeling very unwell, as these can require assessment for pre-eclampsia. Seek emergency care for chest pressure, breathlessness, fainting, vomiting blood, or black stools.

Which product and dose fit my pregnancy and health history? How should I separate it from my prenatal vitamins? How long should I try it before contacting you? Could my symptoms signal another problem?