Heartburn remedies in the third trimester

The stomach has less room as the uterus grows, and pregnancy hormones can make the barrier above the stomach relax. This can let acid move upward, particularly after a large meal or when you recline. The resulting burning, sour fluid or throat discomfort is consistent with heartburn. It is a symptom associated with acid reflux, not a diagnosis of its cause.

Have smaller portions more frequently and avoid eating close to bedtime. Sit upright after meals and use pillows or an approved wedge to keep your upper body raised, while maintaining a comfortable sleep position. Limit only the foods and drinks that clearly provoke your symptoms. Before using an antacid or acid-reducing medicine, ask your maternity clinician or pharmacist about the ingredient, dose and timing with prenatal supplements.

Contact your maternity team when symptoms prevent normal eating, repeatedly wake you, or persist despite the measures above. Get urgent help for severe chest pain, breathing difficulty, faintness, vomiting blood, black stools, or food becoming stuck. Severe upper abdominal pain with headache or visual changes also needs immediate pregnancy assessment.

Ask whether your symptoms need a medicine review, how to coordinate treatment with prenatal vitamins, and which changes are sensible until delivery.