Heartburn and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it comes with its fair share of discomforts — and heartburn is one of the most common. If you're pregnant and experiencing a burning sensation in your chest, especially after meals or at night, you're not alone. Nearly half of all pregnant women report having heartburn at some point during pregnancy.

But what causes it? And more importantly, how can you find relief?

What Is Heartburn?

Heartburn is a burning feeling that rises from the stomach or lower chest and often creeps up into the throat. It’s caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus — the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach.

This backward flow is known as acid reflux, and when it happens frequently, it can lead to that uncomfortable sensation we call heartburn.

Why Does Pregnancy Cause Heartburn?

Several pregnancy-related factors can lead to heartburn:

1. Hormonal Changes

During pregnancy, your body produces more of the hormone progesterone, which helps relax muscles to support a growing baby. But this hormone also relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) — the muscle that acts like a valve between the stomach and esophagus. When the LES relaxes, it’s easier for stomach acid to escape into the esophagus.

2. Growing Uterus

As your baby grows, your uterus expands and puts pressure on your stomach. This can push stomach contents — including acid — upward, especially when you're lying down or after a large meal.

3. Slower Digestion

Pregnancy hormones can also slow down digestion, which means food stays in your stomach longer. This increases the chances of acid reflux.

When Does Heartburn Typically Start in Pregnancy?

Heartburn can start as early as the first trimester but is more common and more intense during the second and third trimesters as the uterus continues to grow and push upward.

How to Manage Heartburn During Pregnancy

Thankfully, there are several ways to find relief — and many don’t involve medication.

✅ Lifestyle and Diet Changes

• Eat smaller meals: Large meals can overload your stomach and trigger reflux.
  
  
• Avoid trigger foods: Spicy foods, chocolate, citrus, tomatoes, fried foods, and caffeine are common culprits.
  
  
• Don’t lie down right after eating: Wait at least 2–3 hours after a meal before lying down.
  
  
• Elevate your head while sleeping: Propping up your head and shoulders can help keep acid down.
  
  
• Chew gum: It increases saliva, which can help neutralize stomach acid.
  
  

✅ Stay Hydrated (But Smartly)

Drink plenty of water throughout the day, but avoid drinking large amounts during meals to prevent overfilling your stomach.

✅ Wear Loose Clothing

Tight clothing can put pressure on your belly and worsen heartburn symptoms.

What About Medications?

Some over-the-counter antacids like Tums (calcium carbonate) are generally considered safe during pregnancy — but always consult your doctor before taking any medication.

Avoid medications that contain:

• Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda)
• Magnesium trisilicate
  
  

These can be harmful to you or your baby in high doses.

When to Talk to Your Doctor

Occasional heartburn is normal during pregnancy, but if you're:

• Having severe or constant discomfort
• Losing weight
• Struggling to eat or sleep
• Vomiting frequently

…it's time to talk to your OB-GYN. You may have a more serious condition, like GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), which may require medical management.

Final Thoughts

Heartburn during pregnancy may be common, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer in silence. With a few lifestyle adjustments and some guidance from your doctor, you can find relief and focus on the exciting journey of motherhood.

Remember: every pregnancy is different, so what works for one person may not work for another. Be patient with yourself and don’t hesitate to ask for help.

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