OmmyCare

🩺 Heartburn (Acid reflux) in pregnancy

Disease Overview

Third Trimester

Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest or throat caused by stomach acid rising up into the esophagus. It is a common complaint during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters.

Causes

1 . Hormonal changes (especially increased progesterone, which relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter)
2 . Enlarged uterus pressing on the stomach
3 . Slowed digestion during pregnancy
4 . Eating large meals or lying down after eating

Risk Factors

1 . Pregnancy (especially in the second and third trimesters)
2 . Eating spicy, fatty, or acidic foods
3 . Overeating or eating late at night
4 . Obesity or excess weight gain
5 . History of acid reflux

Prevention

1 . Avoid trigger foods
2 . Eat slowly and chew well
3 . Maintain a healthy pregnancy weight
4 . Sleep with the upper body slightly elevated
5 . Avoid bending or lying down after meals

Symptoms

1 . Burning sensation in the chest or throat
2 . Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
3 . Difficulty swallowing
4 . Regurgitation of food or acid
5 . Increased discomfort after meals or at night

Complications

Complications can arise during pregnancy and may affect both the mother and the baby.

Mother's Complications

Complications that may affect the mother during pregnancy.

1 . Discomfort and poor sleep
2 . Decreased appetite

Baby's Complications

Complications that may affect the baby during pregnancy.

1 . No direct harm to the baby, but maternal discomfort can affect nutrition if not managed

Treatment Options

Evidence-based approaches for management

Treatment Options

1 . Eat small, frequent meals
2 . Avoid spicy, acidic, and fried foods
3 . Don't lie down immediately after eating (wait at least 2–3 hours)
4 . Elevate the head of the bed
5 . Wear loose-fitting clothes

Medical Treatment

1 . Antacids (e.g., calcium carbonate – considered safe during pregnancy)
2 . H2 blockers (e.g., ranitidine or famotidine – under medical supervision)
3 . Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole – used only if needed and prescribed)

OmmyCare

🩺 Heartburn (Acid reflux) in pregnancy

Disease Overview

Third Trimester

Causes

Risk Factors

Prevention

Symptoms

Complications

Mother's Complications

Baby's Complications

Treatment Options

Treatment Options

Medical Treatment

Nutritional Treatment

Videos

Heartburn in Pregnancy