Ways to reduce heartburn during pregnancy

Heartburn is a burning feeling behind the breastbone caused when stomach contents move into the oesophagus. 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 meals or when lying down. Acid Reflux, Gastritis or a Hiatus Hernia can cause similar discomfort, so persistent symptoms should be reviewed.

Try smaller, more frequent meals and eat slowly. Stay upright after eating, avoid lying down soon after a meal, and raise the head of your bed if symptoms disturb sleep. Identify triggers such as fatty or spicy foods, caffeine, fizzy drinks or mint without cutting out nutritious foods unnecessarily. Wear comfortable clothing around the abdomen. Before using an antacid, acid-suppressing medicine or herbal product, ask your maternity clinician or pharmacist which option and dose are appropriate in pregnancy.

Contact your maternity team or doctor if heartburn is frequent, worsening, affecting eating or sleep, or not responding to an agreed plan. Seek urgent care for severe chest pain, breathlessness, faintness, vomiting blood, black stools, severe upper abdominal pain, or trouble swallowing. In later pregnancy, severe upper abdominal pain with headache, visual changes or sudden swelling also needs urgent maternity assessment.

Which over-the-counter products are suitable at my stage of pregnancy? Could my symptoms suggest Gastritis or another condition? How should I space reflux medicine from other medicines or supplements?