How to relieve indigestion in pregnancy

Indigestion may feel like burning, fullness, bloating, belching or food coming back up. Pregnancy hormones can relax the muscle that normally keeps stomach contents down, while the growing uterus can increase pressure on the stomach. These changes can make symptoms more noticeable after a large or late meal. Indigestion itself is not a diagnosis of a more serious condition; persistent or unusual symptoms need assessment.

Try several small meals rather than large portions, chew slowly and remain seated or standing for a while after eating. Avoid lying down soon after food, and raise your upper body during rest if symptoms disturb sleep. Notice whether fatty, spicy or acidic foods, caffeine or fizzy drinks trigger discomfort, then reduce the specific trigger rather than restricting food broadly. Wear comfortable clothing around your abdomen. Do not start an over-the-counter remedy without checking that it is appropriate in pregnancy; a pharmacist, midwife or doctor can advise on options such as acid reflux medication.

Arrange medical advice if symptoms are frequent, worsening, interfere with eating or sleep, or do not improve with simple changes. Seek urgent care for severe or persistent upper abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, vomit containing blood, black stools, trouble swallowing, chest pain, faintness, or a severe headache or visual change during pregnancy. These features need assessment because they may have causes beyond ordinary indigestion.

Ask which treatment is suitable at your stage of pregnancy, whether another medicine could be contributing, and what symptoms should prompt same-day review. Mention where the discomfort is felt, when it follows meals, and any vomiting or swallowing difficulty.