Women experience heartburn while pregnant for a variety of reasons. Hormonal changes affect the digestive system throughout pregnancy and in later term the position of the child can temporarily shift the stomach causing acid to contact the esophagus.

Even early in the pregnancy, changes in hormones slow the rate at which food passes through the digestive system. This slowing allows more time for absorption of nutrients into the blood stream where they can reach the baby. The down side to a slow digestive system is that it often results in constipation and heartburn. Food stays in the stomach longer and travels through the intestines and colon in a leisurely manner.

Heartburn often feels like a burning sensation in the throat or chest. Many women describe it as feeling like a lump in their throat. The discomfort is common after meals and when lying down to rest or sleep.

Diet can help to minimize the symptoms of heartburn while pregnant. Experts recommend that women eat small frequent meals. Think of dividing three meals each day into six smaller meals. Overeating will increase the discomfort greatly, so reduce portion size at each meal. If eating out, a good way to do this is to cut the portions in half on the plate and only eat half. Ask for takeout containers for the rest of the food if desired.

Foods to avoid include fried foods, spicy foods, citrus fruits and juices and carbonated drinks. Increasing the intake of fiber, such as whole grain bread, and drinking water between meals will also help. Wait at least an hour after eating before laying down to rest.

Later in the pregnancy, the position of the body can push the uterus to crowd the stomach, so a few simple preventative actions can minimize the discomfort. Bend at the knees instead of at the waist. Good posture while sitting is a must. Slightly elevate shoulders and head while sleeping. Avoid wearing clothes that are too tight.

Antacid products such as Tums are generally considered safe for use by pregnant women. Look for calcium carbonate in the ingredient section of the packaging. It is best to avoid baking soda and medicines with sodium bicarbonate, because sodium will cause retention of water.

Do not take products that contain aluminum or aspirin in the ingredient list as these are not appropriate for pregnant women due to the affect on the fetus. The health care professional should be consulted before starting any medication or home remedy while pregnant.

Women who experience heartburn outside of pregnancy may find that experiencing heartburn while pregnant is more frequent and painful. Consulting the doctor is recommended so that more complex and effective remedies can be prescribed.

The good news is that symptoms will go away or return to what may be considered normal almost immediately after delivery. Heartburn while pregnant will pass and should leave the digestive system in much the same state as it was prior to pregnancy.

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