Heartburn During Pregnancy: Why It Happens & How to Find Relief
Pregnancy brings many wonderful changes, but some not-so-fun ones too—like heartburn. If you’ve ever felt a burning sensation in your chest after eating or lying down, you’re not alone! Nearly 50% of pregnant women experience heartburn, especially in the second and third trimesters.
The good news? You don’t have to suffer through it. In this guide, we’ll explain:
✔ Why heartburn happens during pregnancy
✔ Safe ways to ease the burn
✔ When to see a doctor
Why Do Pregnant Women Get Heartburn?
Heartburn (also called acid reflux) feels like a burning pain behind your breastbone. It happens when stomach acid flows back up into your esophagus (the tube that carries food to your stomach).
3 Main Reasons Pregnancy Triggers Heartburn:
1️⃣ Hormones – The hormone progesterone relaxes muscles, including the valve that keeps stomach acid down. This makes it easier for acid to sneak up.
2️⃣ Growing Baby – As your uterus expands, it pushes against your stomach, squeezing acid upward.
3️⃣ Slower Digestion – Pregnancy slows digestion, so food stays in your stomach longer, increasing acid buildup.
12 Safe & Natural Ways to Relieve Heartburn
You don’t need to rely on medicines right away. Try these doctor-approved tips first:
🍽️ Food & Drink Fixes
✔ Eat smaller meals (5-6 small meals instead of 3 big ones).
✔ Avoid spicy, fried, or citrus foods (they trigger acid).
✔ Sip ginger tea or chamomile tea (calms the stomach).
✔ Chew sugar-free gum after meals (increases saliva, which neutralizes acid).
🛌 Sleeping & Posture Tips
✔ Don’t lie down right after eating (wait 2-3 hours).
✔ Sleep on your left side (helps keep acid down).
✔ Prop up your head with an extra pillow (gravity helps!).
🌿 Natural Remedies
✔ Drink almond milk (coats the stomach).
✔ Try a spoon of honey in warm water (soothes irritation).
✔ Eat a few almonds (helps absorb acid).
💡 Bonus Tip: Wear loose-fitting clothes—tight waistbands push acid up!
When Should You See a Doctor?
Most heartburn is normal, but contact your doctor if:
⚠️ You’re vomiting blood or seeing black stools.
⚠️ You lose weight without trying.
⚠️ The burning won’t go away, even after trying home remedies.
Your doctor may prescribe pregnancy-safe antacids if needed.
