Heartburn & Indigestion During Early Pregnancy

Heartburn and indigestion are common conditions which affect many women during pregnancy.  Symptoms are the same as they are for anyone suffering with the condition but some women find that the severity of their heartburn and indigestion changes throughout pregnancy. Let’s take a closer look at pregnancy heartburn and indigestion, and how the condition differs during the early and latter stages of pregnancy.

What does heartburn feel like during pregnancy?

Heartburn is a strong burning sensation, often felt in the chest and lower throat. It’s the result of stomach acid passing from your stomach to your oesophagus and can be very painful for sufferers.

Symptoms of heartburn during pregnancy can include:

• A burning sensation in your chest or at the back of your throat
• A sour or acidic taste in your mouth that may or may not be accompanied with feeling nauseous
• Difficulty swallowing
• Feeling nauseous

What does indigestion feel like during pregnancy?

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is the general term for stomach pain or discomfort. It’s a very common problem that affects most people at some point.

Symptoms of indigestion during pregnancy might include:

• Feeling uncomfortably full
• Feeling bloated
• Feeling nauseous
• Belching
• Regurgitation
• Being sick
• Heartburn

What causes heartburn and indigestion?

Generally, heartburn and indigestion are the result of stomach acid. Heartburn is caused when stomach acid escapes back up into the oesophagus (food pipe) and irritates the lining. Indigestion is when the stomach acid starts to break down the protective lining of the stomach wall.

Some people’s digestive systems are especially sensitive to acid meaning the burning sensation of heartburn and indigestion can be quite painful. More often than not, heartburn and indigestion will happen soon after eating, but on occasion there may be a delay between eating and the symptoms appearing. Amongst other factors, eating a large meal or not giving your body enough time to digest your food before lying down can exacerbate symptoms of heartburn and indigestion.

Why do you get heartburn and indigestion during pregnancy?

During pregnancy your body goes through a whole host of changes, both hormonal and physical. These changes mean that pregnant women are more likely to suffer from symptoms of heartburn and indigestion for the following reasons:

1)      Hormonal changes: Pregnancy hormones can relax the muscular valve between the stomach and the oesophagus allowing stomach acid to travel up into the oesophagus.

2)      Physical changes: As your baby grows and your womb expands, the additional pressure on your stomach can contribute to symptoms of indigestion.

How common is heartburn and indigestion during pregnancy?

Heartburn and indigestion is incredibly common during pregnancy. In fact, research has shown that as many as 8 out 10 women experience indigestion at some point during their pregnancy.

For lots of women, pregnancy is the first time they experience symptoms of heartburn or indigestion whereas for others the symptoms might be all too familiar.

It’s hard to predict whether or not you will suffer from heartburn and indigestion, or how severe symptoms will be, but there are factors which can increase your risk of suffering from either condition during pregnancy.

These include:

• If you suffered from heartburn or indigestion before you were pregnant
• If you have been pregnant before
• If you are in the latter stages of pregnancy

Whilst both conditions can be uncomfortable and even painful, try not to worry. Remember that you are not alone and lots of other mums-to-be are going through exactly the same thing! Some pregnant women find the symptoms of heartburn and indigestion they experience during pregnancy are only temporary and clear up once their baby is born.

If for any reason you become concerned about your symptoms you should consult with your GP to make sure what you’re experiencing is not something more severe. 

Is heartburn and indigestion more common during early pregnancy?

Most women find that symptoms of heartburn and indigestion are more frequent and often more severe in the latter stages of pregnancy - usually from about 27 weeks onwards when the second trimester is drawing to a close.

The reason for this is that the bigger your baby gets, the more pressure your womb will be putting on your digestive system. Whilst symptoms of heartburn and indigestion are generally considered more common during the third trimester of pregnancy, remember that everyone is different and it’s perfectly normal to experience heartburn and indigestion at any point during your pregnancy.

Is heartburn and indigestion a sign of pregnancy?

Whilst heartburn and indigestion are conditions commonly associated with being pregnant, it’s important to remember the condition should not be considered a sign of pregnancy. If you do suspect that you are pregnant, it’s a good idea to book an appointment with your GP.

How to relieve heartburn and indigestion during pregnancy

There are a number of things you can do to help ease symptoms of heartburn and indigestion during pregnancy. Often, a few small adjustments to your lifestyle and diet can make a big difference in helping to relieve the painful symptoms of pregnancy heartburn and indigestion.

A few quick self-help tips for heartburn and indigestion relief might include:

• Avoid eating within three hours of going to bed
• Eat smaller meals more frequently, rather than three big meals
• Make a note of any food or drink which triggers symptoms and try to avoid them in future

Over the counter medications can also provide effect relief. Gaviscon Extra Liquids is suitable for use if you are pregnant and will help to combat the pain of heartburn and indigestion. Medicines can affect the unborn baby - always talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication during pregnancy.

See here for more tips on heartburn relief during pregnancy.

When to see a doctor

If you are pregnant and suffering with heartburn or indigestion for the first time, it’s a good idea to speak to your doctor for peace of mind. If your heartburn or indigestion persists, or if you are concerned that your symptoms are severe, it could be a good idea to book an appointment with your GP or midwife.

All information presented is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. Gaviscon Extra Oral Suspension contains sodium alginate (500mg), sodium bicarbonate (213mg) and calcium carbonate (325mg). For the relief of symptoms of heartburn and indigestion. Always read the label. Suitable from 12 years old. If symptoms are severe or prolonged, you should contact a doctor or pharmacist.

Medicines can affect the unborn baby. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine in pregnancy.

 

IRL/G-OTC/0917/0021f