Why Pregnancy Causes Heartburn

Progesterone relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to rise. As the uterus grows, pressure increases on the stomach — worsening reflux.

Up to 50% of pregnant women experience heartburn.

Safe Relief Tips

• Eat smaller meals

• Avoid eating within 2–3 hours of bedtime

• Elevate your head while sleeping

• Avoid trigger foods (spicy, citrus, chocolate)

• Speak to your OB about safe antacids

When Heartburn Becomes GERD

If symptoms occur daily, disturb sleep, or don’t improve with lifestyle changes, you may have GERD.

Chronic reflux can lead to:

• Esophageal inflammation

• Ulcers

• Swallowing difficulty

Persistent symptoms deserve evaluation.

📍 Get Help Today

For severe or worsening reflux:

GI Urgent Care of Florida
🌐 www.giurgentcare.com

For long-term GERD management:

Digestive & Liver Center of Florida
🌐 www.dlcfl.com