Elara guides

Taming pregnancy heartburn

Why it flares now — and what actually soothes it.

Heartburn is one of pregnancy's most common gripes, especially later on — that hot, burning feeling rising from your stomach into your chest or throat. It's harmless to you and the baby, even if it's thoroughly miserable, and there's plenty you can do.

Why it happens

Two things gang up. Hormones (progesterone) relax the valve at the top of your stomach, so acid escapes upward more easily. And later, your growing uterus presses on your stomach, leaving less room. That's why it often gets worse in the third trimester.

What helps

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones.
• Avoid your triggers — often spicy, fatty or fried foods, citrus, caffeine and fizzy drinks.
• Don't lie down for a couple of hours after eating; prop your upper body up in bed.
• Sip milk or eat yoghurt for quick relief; chew food slowly.
• Loose clothing around the waist eases the pressure.

Medication

If lifestyle tweaks aren't enough, several antacids and acid-reducing medicines are considered safe in pregnancy — your pharmacist or provider can recommend one. Don't just reach for whatever's in the cupboard; check it's suitable first.

Severe upper-abdominal pain — especially under the ribs on the right, with a headache or vision changes — is not ordinary heartburn and could signal pre-eclampsia. Get it checked the same day.