Tums for heartburn in pregnancy

Heartburn is a burning feeling behind the breastbone or in the upper throat, often caused when stomach contents move upward. Pregnancy hormones can relax the valve above the stomach, and pressure from the growing uterus can make backflow easier. Heartburn is a common presentation of acid reflux, while gastritis, a hiatus hernia, or a peptic ulcer can cause similar upper-abdominal discomfort. Explore [Heartburn](/symptoms/heartburn/) and [Acid Reflux](/conditions/acid-reflux/) for more context.

Follow the label for your specific Tums product rather than guessing from another pack. Use it for occasional symptoms and ask a pharmacist before taking it regularly. Calcium carbonate may interfere with absorption of iron or other medicines, so ask how to separate doses from prenatal supplements and prescriptions. Eat smaller portions, stay upright after meals, and identify foods that reliably trigger burning. If symptoms continue despite these measures, your clinician can review whether a different acid reflux medication is appropriate in pregnancy. Do not start a new medicine or supplement without checking its suitability.

Get urgent help for chest pressure, breathing difficulty, fainting, vomiting blood, black stools, or sudden severe pain. Arrange prompt maternity or medical review if heartburn is persistent, makes swallowing difficult, causes repeated vomiting, or stops you eating or sleeping. Heartburn itself does not establish a diagnosis: a symptom can have several causes, so worsening or unusual symptoms need assessment.

Ask which formulation and amount suit your pregnancy, how to time it with iron, and what plan to follow if you need relief often. Tell the clinician about kidney problems, other medicines, vomiting, or pain that feels different from your usual heartburn.