Tips for indigestion during pregnancy

Indigestion may cause burning behind the breastbone, a full or uncomfortable feeling after eating, burping, nausea, or food and acid coming back up. Pregnancy hormones can relax the valve between the stomach and oesophagus, while the growing uterus can increase pressure on the stomach. Symptoms may be more noticeable after large, rich, spicy, or late meals. Indigestion is often temporary, but persistent symptoms can also occur with conditions such as Acid Reflux, Gastritis, or a Hiatus Hernia.

Try eating smaller portions more often and chew slowly. Remain upright while eating and for a while afterwards; avoid lying down soon after a meal. Notice whether fatty, spicy, acidic, or caffeinated foods trigger symptoms, and reduce those that do. Gentle walking after eating may be comfortable. Raise the head of your sleeping area if night symptoms occur, while keeping your pregnancy comfort in mind. Do not start an antacid or acid-reducing product without checking that it is suitable in pregnancy; a clinician or pharmacist can advise about Acid Reflux Medication and how to use it.

Arrange medical advice if indigestion is frequent, worsening, disrupting sleep, or not improving with simple measures. Seek urgent help for severe or persistent chest or upper-abdominal pain, vomiting blood, black stools, trouble swallowing, repeated vomiting, fainting, or breathlessness. In pregnancy, contact your maternity team promptly for severe pain under the ribs with headache, visual changes, sudden swelling, or feeling very unwell.

Ask which medicines and doses are appropriate for your stage of pregnancy, whether another condition should be considered, and what symptoms should prompt contact with your maternity team. Bring a short record of meals, timing, medicines, and nighttime symptoms.