Treatment of heartburn during pregnancy

Heartburn during pregnancy can often be very distressing and does require treatment. All pregnant women should understand that before they take any medications or health supplements for treatment of heartburn, they should first check with their doctor. The reason for this is that there are many medications that can affect the fetus and cause permanent damage. However, some medications can be taken during the third trimester because the fetus has already grown and has a lesser risk of adverse reactions.

All women should first use home remedies or over the counter medications to treat symptoms of heartburn during pregnancy. There are several options for treating heartburn including the following:

Antacids can quickly neutralize stomach acidity and relieve pain. Common antacids include Maalox, Mylanta, Rolaids and Tums. These medications usually work within a few minutes. All antacids are available over the counter but unfortunately do not work in all pregnant women.

There are several medications that can be used to decrease acid production. 

The anti histamine blockers like tagamet, zantac and pepcid do not work as quickly as the antacids but they do provide much longer last relief. A single tablet can provide relief for the whole day.

The third group of medications is the proton pump inhibitors, which not only decrease acid production but also can help heal any ulcers. Proton pump inhibitors are also available over the counter and are very effective for heartburn relief. In general proton pump inhibitors are slightly more expensive than both the anti histamines and antacids.

All pregnant women should read the label on the packages before taking these medications. Moreover, these medications should only be taken as needed and not on a regular basis. All these medications provide good relief in the majority of patients with heartburn. However, if you do not find relief, you should speak to your doctor.

Heartburn during pregnancy is usually worse in the 3^rd trimester and thus medications are only required during this period. It is best not to combine the above medications but first start with the antacids and progress to the others if the heartburn continues. Most pregnant women with heartburn do find great relief from anti histamines and proton pump inhibitors. All these medications can be taken with a glass of water or food. For maximal benefit, take the medication at the same time every day.