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Is There a Remedy for Heartburn During Pregnancy?
I’m 5 months pregnant. No matter what I eat, I get heartburn. Is this normal? If so, what can I do to feel better?
- Cari
Heartburn — which, despite its name, has nothing to do with the heart — is a common pregnancy complaint. Many pregnant women experience a burning sensation in the throat and chest that occurs when the stomach contents move back up into the esophagus (the tube that moves food from the throat to the stomach). This occurs because the hormone progesterone slows the emptying of the stomach. It also relaxes the valve at the entrance to the stomach so that it doesn’t close properly, allowing acidic stomach contents to move upward into the esophagus, a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux, or acid reflux. It can get worse later on in the pregnancy when the growing uterus presses upwards on the stomach.
To help minimize the discomfort of heartburn:
- Steer clear of certain foods and drinks that may make it worse — citrus; spicy, fatty (especially fried or greasy) foods; caffeine; and carbonated drinks.
- Eat several small meals throughout the day.
- Take your time when eating.
- Drink fluids between — not during — meals.
- Avoid eating or drinking right before bedtime.
- Resist the urge to lie down after meals.
- Talk to your doctor about medications that can safely be taken for heartburn during pregnancy.
For more information, check out these articles.
Eating During Pregnancy
Staying Healthy During Pregnancy
Elana Pearl Ben-Joseph, MD
Date reviewed: May 2006
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