Heartburn solutions during pregnancy

Heartburn is a burning feeling behind the breastbone caused when stomach contents move upward into the food pipe. As pregnancy progresses, hormonal changes can relax the valve between the stomach and food pipe, while the growing uterus can increase pressure on the stomach. This is related to acid reflux; heartburn itself does not show that you have a serious disease.

Try modest meals more often, eat slowly, and remain upright after eating. Avoid lying down soon after food and raise your upper body when resting if night symptoms occur. Notice personal triggers such as rich, spicy or acidic foods, caffeine, and fizzy drinks. Do not start an over-the-counter remedy, herbal product or supplement without checking with your maternity clinician or pharmacist, because pregnancy changes which ingredients are suitable. A clinician may recommend an antacid or another acid-reducing treatment after reviewing your symptoms and medicines.

Contact your maternity team if symptoms are frequent, disturb sleep, make eating difficult, or continue despite lifestyle changes. Seek urgent medical help for severe chest pressure, trouble breathing, fainting, vomiting blood, black stools, or difficulty swallowing. New upper abdominal pain with a severe headache, vision changes or marked swelling also needs prompt pregnancy assessment.

Ask which remedy fits your stage of pregnancy, whether it should be separated from prenatal vitamins, and what to do if symptoms return at night. Bring a list of medicines and describe when symptoms begin.