How to reduce heartburn in pregnancy

Heartburn is a burning feeling behind the breastbone or in the upper chest when stomach contents move upwards. Pregnancy hormones can relax the valve between the stomach and food pipe, while the growing uterus can increase pressure on the stomach. Symptoms may be worse after a large meal, when bending or when lying down. Heartburn does not mean the pregnancy is unsafe, but severe or unusual symptoms should not be self-diagnosed.

Eat slowly and choose smaller meals more often if large meals trigger symptoms. Remain upright after eating, avoid lying down soon after food, and identify personal triggers such as spicy, fatty or acidic foods. Raise the upper body for sleep in a comfortable, stable way. Do not start an antacid, acid-suppressing medicine or herbal product without checking that it is suitable in pregnancy; some products can interact with supplements or other medicines.

Contact your maternity team or clinician if heartburn is persistent, prevents eating or sleeping, or does not improve with recommended measures. Seek urgent advice for severe upper abdominal or chest pain, repeated vomiting, trouble swallowing, vomiting blood, black stools, severe headache, vision changes, sudden swelling or feeling very unwell. These symptoms can need assessment for causes beyond ordinary reflux, including Pre-eclampsia.

Ask which foods or medicines may be contributing, which treatment is suitable for your stage of pregnancy, how to take it with prenatal supplements, and which warning signs require urgent contact.