Home remedies for heartburn during pregnancy

Pregnancy hormones can relax the valve between the stomach and food pipe, while the growing uterus can add pressure around the stomach. Acid may then move upward and cause a burning feeling behind the breastbone, a sour taste, or discomfort after meals. Heartburn is a symptom, and it can also occur with conditions such as Acid Reflux, Gastritis, or Hiatus Hernia.

Eat modest portions more often and take time to chew. Notice whether spicy, fatty, acidic, or caffeinated foods trigger symptoms, then reduce only the foods that affect you. Sip fluids through the day rather than filling the stomach with a large drink alongside a meal. Remain upright after eating and avoid bending soon afterwards. At night, raise the upper part of your body with a suitable wedge or extra support, and ask your maternity team which sleeping position is right for you. Avoid smoking and alcohol. Do not start herbal products, antacids, or acid-reducing medicine without checking pregnancy suitability; your clinician can discuss Acid Reflux Medication.

Arrange medical advice if symptoms are frequent, severe, worsening, disturbing sleep, or not settling with simple changes. Seek urgent help for chest pressure, trouble breathing, fainting, vomiting blood, black stools, severe abdominal pain, or difficulty swallowing. During pregnancy, contact your maternity service promptly for severe upper abdominal pain with a severe headache, vision changes, or sudden swelling.

Ask which non-prescription products are suitable at your stage of pregnancy, whether another medicine could be worsening symptoms, and whether your pattern needs assessment for a digestive condition. Bring a brief record of meals, timing, night symptoms, and anything that has helped.