Relief Strategies

How to Relieve Heartburn & Acid Reflux

Safe, evidence-based strategies to help manage heartburn & acid reflux during pregnancy.

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About This Symptom

Burning sensation in chest and throat from stomach acid

Most common: Weeks 16-40Peak weeks: 32, 34, 36, 38

💡 Effective Relief Strategies

✓Eat smaller, frequent meals
✓Avoid spicy, greasy, acidic foods
✓Don't eat 2-3 hours before bed
✓Sleep with head elevated
✓Tums or calcium carbonate antacids
✓Wear loose clothing
✓Chew gum to increase saliva

🔍 Understanding What Causes It

Understanding the root causes can help you choose the most effective relief strategies:

  • â€ĸProgesterone relaxing esophageal valve
  • â€ĸGrowing uterus pushing stomach upward
  • â€ĸSlower digestion
  • â€ĸIncreased stomach pressure
  • â€ĸCertain trigger foods

⚖ī¸ Normal vs. Concerning Signs

✓ Normal Signs

These symptoms are typically normal and can be managed at home:

  • ✓Burning after meals
  • ✓Worse lying down
  • ✓Relieved by antacids
  • ✓Occasional discomfort

⚠ Concerning Signs

Call your doctor if you experience:

  • ⚠Severe chest pain
  • ⚠Difficulty swallowing
  • ⚠Vomiting blood
  • ⚠Black stools
  • ⚠Weight loss

đŸĨ When to Seek Medical Help

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of these warning signs:

⚠Severe pain not relieved by antacids
⚠Difficulty swallowing
⚠Vomiting blood
⚠Black, tarry stools
⚠Chest pain with shortness of breath

Remember: It's always better to call your doctor if you're unsure. They're there to help and would rather hear from you than have you worry unnecessarily.

Week-by-Week Relief Tips

Get specific relief strategies for each week this symptom commonly occurs:

Week 16
Week 17
Week 18
Week 19
Week 20
mild
Week 21
Week 22
Week 23
Week 24
Week 25
Week 26
Week 27
Week 28
Week 29
Week 30
moderate
Week 31
Week 32
Week 33
Week 34
Week 35
Week 36
severe
Week 37
Week 38
Week 39
Week 40

By Trimester

First Trimester (Weeks 1-13)

Uncommon in first trimester

View all first trimester symptoms →

Second Trimester (Weeks 14-27)

Begins mid-second trimester, affects 30-40%

View all second trimester symptoms →

Third Trimester (Weeks 28-40)

Very common - up to 80% experience it, worsens as baby grows

View all third trimester symptoms →

Related Symptoms & Relief

These symptoms often occur together. Managing one may help with others:

Nausea→
← Back to Heartburn & Acid Reflux OverviewView All Symptoms