- Heartburn affects more than 50 percent of women at some point in their pregnancy, making it uncomfortable to eat and also interfering with sleep habits.
- Women who suffer from heartburn complain of a burning sensation or irritation in the chest, which sometimes can be accompanied by a sour or acidic taste in the mouth.
- Pregnant women should avoid caffeine, carbonated beverages, chocolate, foods that are high in fat, orange juice and acidic foods to prevent heartburn attacks.
- In addition to avoiding food triggers, a woman who is pregnant can lessen her chance of heartburn by eating small, frequent meals, not eating three hours before bed, and elevating the head of her bed by 4 to 6 inches.
- While heartburn during pregnancy is commonly treatable with minor lifestyle changes, a doctor should be contacted if heartburn persists or worsens, to determine other treatment options.
