Heartburn During Pregnancy: Causes, Relief, and What Works

When you're pregnant, heartburn during pregnancy, a burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid rising into the esophagus. Also known as pregnancy acid reflux, it affects up to 80% of expectant mothers, especially in the second and third trimesters. It’s not just discomfort—it can mess with sleep, eating, and your whole sense of well-being. But here’s the good news: it’s usually temporary, and there are real, safe ways to manage it without reaching for risky meds.

What’s happening? As your baby grows, your uterus pushes up on your stomach, squeezing it like a tube of toothpaste. At the same time, pregnancy hormones like progesterone relax the valve between your stomach and esophagus, letting acid slip back up. That’s why you feel that fiery sting after eating, lying down, or even bending over. It’s not your fault. It’s not bad digestion. It’s your body making space for a new life.

Some things make it worse—spicy food, caffeine, big meals, chocolate, citrus, and lying down right after eating. But you don’t have to give up everything. Small changes help: eat five tiny meals instead of three big ones, stay upright for an hour after eating, sleep with your head propped up, and avoid tight clothes. If you’re reaching for antacids, stick to calcium- or magnesium-based ones like Tums or Rolaids—they’re safe in pregnancy and work fast. Avoid those with aluminum or sodium bicarbonate unless your doctor says it’s okay.

And yes, some home tricks actually work. Sipping ginger tea, chewing gum after meals to boost saliva (which neutralizes acid), and eating almonds or yogurt can bring relief. But if you’re relying on OTC meds daily, or if the pain is sharp, radiates to your arm, or comes with vomiting or trouble swallowing, talk to your provider. It might be something else.

What you’ll find below are real, practical posts from people who’ve been there—how to choose safe meds, what foods help or hurt, how to sleep without burning, and what to do when nothing seems to work. No fluff. No myths. Just what’s been tested, what’s safe, and what actually brings relief during pregnancy.