Terrible heartburn during pregnancy: relief and warning signs

Pregnancy hormones can relax the valve between the food pipe and stomach, while the growing uterus can increase pressure inside the abdomen. Acid may then move upward, causing burning behind the breastbone, a sour taste, burping or discomfort after meals and when lying down. Similar symptoms can occur with acid reflux, gastritis or a hiatus hernia. Heartburn alone does not establish a diagnosis, especially when pain is new or atypical.

Try smaller meals, eat slowly and remain upright after eating. Notice whether rich, spicy, acidic or caffeinated foods trigger symptoms, and avoid eating close to bedtime. Raise the upper body for sleep if your maternity clinician says this is suitable. Do not use antacids, acid-suppressing medicines or home remedies without checking pregnancy suitability and spacing from other medicines.

Seek urgent care for crushing or spreading chest pain, difficulty breathing, fainting, sweating, vomiting blood, black stools, severe abdominal pain or trouble swallowing. Arrange medical review if symptoms are persistent, wake you repeatedly, cause ongoing vomiting, or do not respond to agreed measures. A clinician can distinguish reflux from heart, lung or digestive problems.

Ask which food changes are realistic, whether an antacid or acid-reflux medicine is appropriate, how to take it with supplements, and which chest or swallowing symptoms require immediate help.