How Hydration Habits Influence Heartburn in Pregnancy

BySamradni Pradhan
Updated: 20 Nov 2025, 2:00 pm
Medical Reviewed by Dr. Chetna Jain

Heartburn can make your pregnancy journey uncomfortable. Although it is a common condition, you do not have to spend the rest of your pregnancy in discomfort. How? Your hydration habits can help in managing heartburn when you are pregnant. Understanding how your hydration habits can influence heartburn will help you stay comfortable. All you have to do is make some simple adjustments to your fluid intake.

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Pregnancy can be demanding on your digestive tract. It does not help when you may crave certain foods, only to find out that they cause heartburn. It is a burning sensation in your chest or throat caused by the rising stomach acid into the oesophagus.
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Your hydration habits can be significant in understanding why you are experiencing heartburn. It is not just about consuming water; it is also about consuming other fluids. These choices can help you manage it better throughout the pregnancy.

What Causes Heartburn During Pregnancy?

Heartburn occurs when a valve between your stomach and oesophagus, called the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), relaxes due to hormonal changes in pregnancy.

Progesterone is the hormone responsible for naturally relaxing this valve, and makes it easier for acid to move upward. Additionally, your growing uterus puts pressure on your stomach, which increases the chance of acid reflux. Some common food and lifestyle choices can also be the reasons for certain health issues. These include:
  • Fatty, spicy, or acidic foods
  • Eating large meals
  • Lying down soon after eating
  • Drinking carbonated beverages or caffeine
Hydration may seem simple, but the choice of fluids can either ease or worsen heartburn symptoms.

How Does Hydration Affect Heartburn?


Can Drinking Water Reduce Heartburn?

Taking small sips of water frequently can wash down the acid and also dilute it in the stomach. Water maintains the smooth functioning of the digestive tract.

However, drinking large amounts of water at once or during meals can overfill your stomach. It may increase the risk of heartburn due to the pressure on the LES.

Which Fluids Are Better or Worse?

You can be mindful of your drink choices to address the problems related to heartburn.
  • Better drink options include water, herbal teas like ginger or chamomile, and diluted fruit juices
  • Limit soda, caffeinated beverages, citrus juices in large quantities, and alcohol (not recommended in pregnancy)
  • Carbonated drinks may cause bloating and add more pressure to your stomach, while acidic juices can irritate the oesophagus.

When Should You Drink?

There are no set rules for drinking any fluids, but timing can make a big difference in how you feel. You can drink fluids based on the meal timing and adjust the quantity accordingly.
  • Before meals: Drink small sips to prepare your stomach, but avoid large amounts that may make you feel full without eating
  • During meals: Limit your intake of liquids to lower the chances of heartburn
  • After meals: Wait at least 30 minutes to an hour before lying down or drinking any significant amount of fluids
You can reduce reflux episodes by being careful with hydration around your meals, which will help you feel more comfortable throughout the day.

Practical Tips to Manage Heartburn Through Hydration

Here are some tips for drinking fluids to manage heartburn.
  • Drink at least 8–10 glasses of water in small portions rather than taking big gulps
  • Avoid drinking water or other fluids with meals. You can drink water 30 minutes before or after meals.
  • Non-acidic beverages, such as ginger tea or warm water with a pinch of salt, can soothe your stomach
  • Limit carbonated and caffeinated drinks
  • Keep a water bottle with you so that it is easy to take small sips whenever needed
  • Sit upright for at least 30 minutes after eating to prevent reflux

When to Seek Medical Advice?

Consult your doctor if you also experience other symptoms with heartburn. It may be something else that requires medical attention.
  • Persistent heartburn that doesn’t get better
  • Difficulty in swallowing
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Vomiting blood or black stools
They may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or other digestive issues that only your doctor can confirm.

Emotional and Lifestyle Considerations

Heartburn can affect your mood, sleep, and overall comfort. You may feel uncomfortable after eating, which may make you anxious. It will only add to your digestive problems. Sharing your feelings with your partner or friend can help. You can prepare meals that are easy on the stomach and do prenatal exercises for your physical and emotional comfort.

Quick Checklist: Hydration and Heartburn Management

  • Take small sips of water throughout the day
  • Avoid drinking large amounts of fluids with your meals
  • Limit carbonated, caffeinated, or highly acidic beverages
  • Wait 30 minutes after eating before you lie down to rest
  • Keep a note of foods and drinks that trigger heartburn and limit their intake
  • Maintain an upright posture during and after meals
  • Discuss any severe heartburn symptoms with your doctor
You may not pay attention to what you are drinking throughout the day, but it can help in managing heartburn. You can reduce discomfort and support your digestive health by adjusting what, when, and how much you drink. When you combine mindful eating, gentle activity, and proper rest, they all work together to make your pregnancy feel comfortable. Remember, to make small changes in your fluid choices every day so that they can add up to create a big difference.

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 How Hydration Habits Influence Heartburn in Pregnancy?

  1. Can drinking more water completely prevent heartburn in pregnancy?
    Water can reduce heartburn, but it may not prevent it entirely. You also need to maintain proper eating habits and stay upright after meals to feel better.
  2. Is it safe to drink herbal teas during pregnancy to reduce heartburn?
    Yes, herbal teas like ginger or chamomile are mostly safe to consume in pregnancy. Consult your doctor before trying any new herbal remedies.
  3. How much water should I drink daily during pregnancy?
    Drink almost 8-10 glasses of water so that your body remains hydrated throughout the day. It will also improve your digestion and reduce heartburn.

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How we reviewed this article
Our team continuously monitors the health and wellness space to create relevant content for you. Every article is reviewed by medical experts to ensure accuracy.

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