Heartburn relief while pregnant

Heartburn happens when stomach contents move back into the food pipe, irritating its lining. Pregnancy hormones can reduce the usual closing pressure, and the enlarging uterus can increase pressure around the stomach. You may notice burning in the chest, sour fluid in the throat, burping, or symptoms after bending or lying down. A persistent pattern can be part of acid reflux; other conditions such as gastritis may cause similar upper-abdominal discomfort.

Eat smaller meals and avoid rushing them. Stay upright after eating, loosen tight clothing around the waist, and avoid lying flat soon after a meal. Keep a simple note of foods and times that bring symptoms on. For night symptoms, raise the upper part of the sleeping surface securely. Check every remedy with your obstetric team or pharmacist, including antacids and acid-reducing medicines, because the right product and dose depend on your circumstances. See Heartburn and Acid Reflux Medication for related guidance.

Ask for an appointment if symptoms keep returning, disturb sleep, or make it hard to eat and drink. Seek urgent care for crushing or spreading chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, vomiting blood, black stools, severe pain, or difficulty swallowing. Pregnancy-related severe upper-abdominal pain, headache, visual changes, or sudden swelling should be reported promptly.

Ask which products are compatible with your pregnancy, whether they need spacing from supplements, and when to stop self-care. Tell the clinician about all medicines, allergies, and any change in swallowing or vomiting.