Reflux During Pregnancy: Causes, Relief, and What You Need to Know

When you’re pregnant, your body changes in ways you never expected—and reflux during pregnancy, a common condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing burning and discomfort is one of them. It’s not just a minor annoyance; for many, it’s a daily struggle that starts as early as the first trimester and gets worse as the baby grows. This isn’t something you just have to live with. Understanding what’s happening inside your body helps you take control—without reaching for risky meds.

Why does this happen? It’s not just eating too much spicy food. As your uterus expands, it pushes up on your stomach, squeezing it like a tube of toothpaste. At the same time, pregnancy hormones, especially progesterone, relax the lower esophageal sphincter—the valve that normally keeps acid where it belongs. That’s why you might feel that familiar burn after a small snack or even when lying down. This isn’t just heartburn—it’s pregnancy acid reflux, a physiological response to hormonal and physical changes unique to gestation. And it’s different from regular GERD because it often resolves after delivery.

What helps? Simple, safe steps make a big difference. Eat smaller meals more often. Stay upright for at least an hour after eating. Sleep with your head propped up—pillows under your mattress work better than just stacking pillows. Avoid trigger foods like citrus, chocolate, caffeine, and fried stuff. And yes, some antacids during pregnancy, calcium-based or magnesium-based options like Tums or Rolaids, are considered safe and effective. But not all are. Avoid those with sodium bicarbonate or aluminum, and always check with your provider before using anything new. You’re not alone—this affects up to 80% of pregnant women at some point.

Some of the posts below dig into how certain medications interact with pregnancy, what over-the-counter options are actually safe, and how digestive changes during gestation connect to other common symptoms like bloating and nausea. You’ll find clear, no-fluff advice on what works, what to avoid, and when to call your doctor. This isn’t about fear—it’s about knowing what’s normal, what’s treatable, and how to protect both you and your baby.