Heartburn During Pregnancy: It's More Than Just Spicy Food

Heartburn is one of the most common discomforts faced by expectant mothers. Often dismissed as a minor inconvenience, it can sometimes be a sign of a deeper issue—Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Understanding the difference between normal pregnancy-related acidity and GERD is crucial for ensuring both maternal comfort and safety.

What Causes Heartburn in Pregnancy?

During pregnancy, your body undergoes massive hormonal and physical changes that can affect your digestive system. Heartburn—characterized by a burning sensation in the chest or throat—usually occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus.

Common Triggers Include:

• Spicy or oily foods: These can irritate the stomach lining and worsen acidity.

• Long gaps between meals: An empty stomach produces acid that can irritate the digestive tract.

• Lying down immediately after eating: This makes it easier for stomach acid to move upward.

In most cases, modifying these lifestyle factors helps relieve the symptoms. However, if heartburn persists despite dietary changes, it might be due to something more.

When It’s More Than Just Heartburn: Understanding GERD

GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) is a more severe and chronic form of acid reflux. In pregnancy, it's not always about what you eat—it could be about what's happening hormonally.

Role of Progesterone

Progesterone, a hormone that supports pregnancy, also relaxes the muscles of the body—including the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES acts like a valve between your stomach and esophagus. When it relaxes too much, it allows stomach acid and food to travel back up, causing GERD symptoms.

Symptoms of GERD in Pregnancy:

• Persistent heartburn that doesn’t improve with lifestyle changes

• Regurgitation of food or sour liquid

• A chronic cough or sore throat

• Disrupted sleep due to acidity

Why Timely Diagnosis Matters

While occasional heartburn is not harmful, untreated GERD can lead to more serious complications like inflammation of the esophagus, poor nutrient absorption, or disrupted sleep, all of which are particularly concerning during pregnancy.

A proper clinical diagnosis is essential. Your doctor may recommend antacids or other pregnancy-safe medications to neutralize or reduce acid production. In severe cases, further investigation might be necessary.

Safe Management Tips

If you’re experiencing frequent heartburn:

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals

• Avoid spicy, acidic, or greasy foods

• Stay upright for at least an hour after eating

• Elevate your head slightly while sleeping

• Drink water in between meals, not with meals

• Consult your doctor before taking any over-the-counter remedies

Ending Words

Heartburn during pregnancy is common—but persistent symptoms may be a sign of GERD, driven by hormonal changes rather than dietary habits. If lifestyle tweaks don’t bring relief, don’t ignore it. Talk to your doctor and seek safe, timely treatment to ensure a more comfortable and healthier pregnancy journey.