Heartburn in Pregnancy | Causes and Relief of Indigestion and Heartburn During Pregnancy

Many pregnant women experience heartburn during pregnancy , particularly as their pregnancy progresses. Although it is often called heartburn, the discomfort is actually related to indigestion and acid reflux caused by stomach acid moving into the oesophagus. This burning sensation in the chest or throat can feel uncomfortable, especially after eating or when lying down. While heartburn can occur at any stage, it often becomes more noticeable during the second and third trimester . Understanding the causes of heartburn in pregnancy , recognising symptoms, and learning safe ways to manage indigestion can help pregnant women stay more comfortable throughout pregnancy. If you are navigating common pregnancy symptoms, you can explore helpful guidance through the Parenting Hub's free tools , which provide support for many pregnancy and parenting concerns. Why Heartburn Happens During Pregnancy Heartburn occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus , the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. This is often referred to as acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux . During pregnancy, several changes in the body can increase the likelihood of heartburn, including the pregnancy hormones. One major factor is the hormone progesterone , which relaxes muscles throughout the body. This includes the sphincter muscle, which normally prevents stomach acid from moving back into the oesophagus. As pregnancy progresses, the growing uterus also places pressure on the stomach. This pressure can push stomach acid upward, causing the familiar burning sensation of heartburn. These changes make heartburn and indigestion common during pregnancy , especially in the later stages. Common Symptoms of Heartburn The symptoms of heartburn during pregnancy can vary from mild to more persistent discomfort. Common symptoms include: A burning sensation in the chest or throat Sour or acidic taste in the mouth Discomfort after eating Pain that worsens when lying down Feeling of food coming back up Some women may also experience symptoms related to gastroesophageal reflux disease GERD if reflux becomes frequent. Although heartburn can occur during the first trimester , many women notice symptoms worsening in the third trimester as the uterus continues to grow. Foods That May Trigger Heartburn Certain foods are more likely to trigger indigestion and heartburn during pregnancy . Common…