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Heartburn During Pregnancy

Table of Contents


Overview

Heartburn is common during pregnancy. That's because hormones cause the digestive system to slow down. The muscles that push food down the esophagus also move more slowly when you are pregnant. And as the uterus grows, it presses on the stomach. This can sometimes force stomach acid up into the esophagus.

Heartburn may start at any time during pregnancy. And it often gets worse as pregnancy progresses. Heartburn usually improves or goes away after childbirth.

Heartburn can be a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The same measures used to treat GERD can help with heartburn during pregnancy. These focus first on making lifestyle changes, such as changing your eating habits. Some nonprescription medicines are generally safe during pregnancy. But talk to your doctor before you use them.

How is heartburn treated?

Treating heartburn during pregnancy focuses first on making lifestyle changes. These are things like changing what and how you eat. It also focuses on taking nonprescription antacids.

Some doctors may recommend medicines along with lifestyle changes.

The medicines listed below are generally safe during pregnancy. But talk to your doctor before you use them.

What can you do to feel better?

Heartburn is very common during pregnancy. Here are some things that can help.


Credits for Heartburn During Pregnancy

Current as of: July 10, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


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