In this article:
What Exactly Is Heartburn During Pregnancy?
Heartburn may sound like a problem caused by the heart, but it is actually a symptom of acid reflux. In some cases, stomach acid moves up into your food pipe (oesophagus), causing a burning sensation in your chest or throat.Your body produces more hormones and adjusts the organs to make room for your growing baby. These changes cause your stomach acid to flow more easily into your throat, resulting in an uncomfortable burn.
Why Does Your Growing Belly Make Heartburn Worse?
You may notice your heartburn becomes more frequent as your belly gets bigger. The following are the reasons for it.- Increased pressure on the stomach: A growing uterus pushes your stomach up, and the pressure may cause your acid to flow back into your oesophagus easily. You may notice it more after eating or when you lie down.
- Hormonal changes: Progesterone relaxes your muscles, which includes the lower oesophageal sphincter, a valve that keeps the acid inside your stomach. It might relax too much in some cases, causing the acid to slip up.
- Slower digestion: Your digestion may slow down as progesterone relaxes the muscles in your digestive tract. It means the food stays longer in your stomach, giving acid time to cause discomfort
When Does Heartburn Usually Start in Pregnancy?
Heartburn can begin in the first trimester, but it tends to get worse in the second and third trimesters as your stomach expands. The pressure may be intense in weeks 27-40, either after eating meals or while lying down to rest.What Does Pregnancy Heartburn Feel Like?
You may experience the following signs.- A burning feeling in your chest or throat
- Sour taste in your mouth
- Burping or bloating
- Discomfort after eating or lying down
- Trouble swallowing in severe cases
Are There Any Warning Signs to Watch Out For?
Heartburn is not harmful, but it may indicate other problems that require further consultation from your doctor.- Severe or persistent chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vomiting that doesn’t stop
- Weight loss
- Heartburn with headache, swelling, or high blood pressure (possible sign of preeclampsia)
How Can You Manage Heartburn Naturally During Pregnancy?
Here are the steps you can take to ease heartburn.- Eat smaller, frequent meals: Try to eat 5-6 meals instead of three large ones, distributing them throughout the day. Eating small meals reduces the pressure on your stomach and prevents reflux.
- Avoid trigger foods: You may be eating common food items, such as spicy dishes, citrus fruits, chocolate, coffee, tomatoes or fried foods without thinking much about them. Identify the food that triggers heartburn and limit or eliminate it from your meals.
- Sit upright after eating: Lying down immediately after a meal can make the heartburn problem worse, so sit upright for 30-45 minutes.
- Sleep smartly: Sleep on your left side and rest your upper body on pillows. The acid may not flow into the oesophagus in this position.
- Stay hydrated, but smartly: It is best to drink water between meals rather than while eating to avoid filling your stomach with it. Aim for a minimum of 8 glasses of water daily.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing: Your stomach may feel pressure if the clothing is tight around your waist, which may lead to heartburn problems.
- Manage stress: Deep breathing, meditation, or light prenatal yoga can help you digest food and relax your mind.
What To Do Next: A Quick Checklist
- Eat smaller meals
- Sit upright for some time after eating a meal
- Note the foods that trigger acid reflux and avoid them
- Drink water throughout the day
- Raise your head while sleeping
- Wear loose clothing to ease pressure
- See your doctor if symptoms do not get better
Emotional & Social Aspects
Heartburn can be another uncomfortable change among the others that you are already coping with during pregnancy. You may find it harder to enjoy meals or get good sleep. It helps to share your feelings with your partner or family so that they can support you by adjusting meal routines.Remember, you are not alone, and it is a common condition faced during pregnancy.. You can manage it better with small lifestyle changes. Do not take your emotional health lightly because a positive mindset leads to positive outcomes.
Your growing belly is a sign of new life, but it also changes how your body works. The pressure on your stomach increases as your baby grows, making heartburn more common. The good news is that being mindful of what you eat and sitting upright after a meal can make your pregnancy journey more comfortable.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on Why Your Growing Belly Can Trigger Heartburn?
- Is heartburn harmful to my baby?
Heartburn does not affect your baby in any way because hormonal and physical changes in your body cause it to happen. However, inform your doctor if you experience severe symptoms. - Can heartburn continue after delivery?
You may notice improvement in your condition as hormone levels return to normal and pressure on your stomach reduces after childbirth. - What home remedies are safe for pregnancy heartburn?
Sipping cold milk, eating a banana, or drinking a glass of water mixed with a teaspoon of honey can relieve the symptoms. Please do not take any herbal or over-the-counter medicines without your doctor's advice.
