Heartburn and Indigestion

Another very common symptom of pregnancy! The same hormone that relaxes the uterus to prevent contractions and relaxes the bowel walls to result in constipation can slow emptying of the stomach. Because of this, food stays in the stomach longer. As the pregnancy progresses and the uterus fills the abdomen, the stomach may also not have as much room as before and becomes compressed.

Things that may help include:

▪ Eat small, frequent meals every 2-3 hours instead of large meals

▪ Do not eat in the 2-3 hours prior to going to bed.

▪ Avoid spicy, fried, or fatty foods

▪ Drinking milk can help with symptoms.

▪ TUMS are typically safe for immediate relief of symptoms.

▪ If your symptoms are not relieved with TUMS, you can take Zantac or Tagamet. These can be purchased over the counter and can be taken either as needed for symptom relief or scheduled for symptom prevention.