For heartburn during pregnancy, several safe options are recommended, including lifestyle changes, natural remedies, and certain over-the-counter medications.
Safe Over-the-Counter Medications:
- Antacids such as Tums, Rolaids, Mylanta, and Maalox are generally considered safe to neutralize stomach acid during pregnancy.
- If antacids are not effective, your doctor may recommend sucralfate , which helps block stomach acid from traveling up the esophagus.
- Certain proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole and esomeprazole may be prescribed if necessary and are considered safe based on studies, usually requiring a doctor's prescription.
Natural Remedies:
- Eating yogurt or drinking milk with honey to soothe the stomach.
- Snacking on almonds , pineapple , or papaya for their digestive enzymes.
- Drinking ginger tea or using ginger as a remedy for inflammation and acid reflux.
- Chewing sugar-free gum to reduce acid reflux.
- Sipping small amounts of water throughout the day, not large gulps.
- Drinking herbal teas like peppermint, slippery elm, or marshmallow root with healthcare provider approval.
Lifestyle Modifications:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
- Avoid eating before lying down or bending over.
- Sleep with pillows or a wedge to prop up the upper body.
- Avoid spicy, fatty, citrus foods, caffeine, and carbonated drinks.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol altogether during pregnancy.
Always consult with a healthcare provider or OB-GYN before starting any medication or new remedy to ensure it is safe for the specific pregnancy situation.
