Heartburn During Pregnancy: Causes, Relief, and What You Need to Know

When you're pregnant, your body changes in ways you never expected—and heartburn during pregnancy, a burning sensation in the chest or throat caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus. Also known as acid reflux pregnancy, it’s one of the most common discomforts, affecting up to 80% of expectant mothers, especially in the second and third trimesters. It’s not just about spicy food or overeating. Hormones like progesterone relax the valve between your stomach and esophagus, letting acid creep upward. At the same time, your growing uterus pushes your stomach upward, squeezing acid out. This isn’t a sign of something wrong—it’s just how your body adapts to make room for your baby.

That burning feeling often gets worse after meals, when lying down, or bending over. Some women mistake it for a heart problem, but it’s not cardiac. It’s digestive. And while it’s uncomfortable, it doesn’t harm your baby. What does matter is how you manage it. Over-the-counter antacids like Tums or Rolaids are generally safe during pregnancy and work fast by neutralizing acid. But not all remedies are equal. Some medications, especially those containing sodium bicarbonate or magnesium trisilicate, can cause side effects or fluid retention. Always check with your provider before taking anything new. Lifestyle tweaks often help more than pills: eat smaller meals, stay upright for two hours after eating, avoid trigger foods like citrus, chocolate, or fried stuff, and sleep with your head slightly elevated. Even simple changes like wearing loose clothing around your belly can reduce pressure and ease symptoms.

Many women wonder if heartburn means their baby will have a full head of hair. There’s no solid science behind that myth, but the truth is still helpful: the same hormones that relax your esophageal valve also help soften your cervix and pelvic ligaments. So while heartburn is annoying, it’s part of your body preparing for birth. If your symptoms are severe, persistent, or paired with vomiting, difficulty swallowing, or weight loss, talk to your doctor. You might need a different approach—like H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors that are considered safe in pregnancy. The good news? It almost always goes away after delivery.

Below, you’ll find real, practical advice from women who’ve been there, backed by medical insights. From natural remedies that actually work to what to avoid when your stomach’s on fire, these posts give you the clear, no-fluff info you need to feel more in control during pregnancy.