By Dr. Sonica Chugh, General Physician

Heartburn is not an uncommon problem during pregnancy. More than 50% of women get heartburn during pregnancy. This is especially common for women who are in the third or second trimesters of the pregnancy. It is also highly likely that you may harm your baby if you try to cure your heartburn through unsafe methods. These are some methods by which you can reduce your chances of heartburn without harming your baby:

1. Do not eat too much at once

This is crucial and severely reduces your chances of getting heartburn during pregnancy.

2. Avoid spicy foods

Spicy foods tend to relax one of the muscles in your digestive tract known as the lower esophageal sphincter. The relaxation of this muscle increases your chances of getting heartburn. Fried or other rich foods do the same thing.

3. Drink less when you are eating

It has been proven that drinking while eating causes acid reflux very often. Heartburn itself is usually caused by acid reflux from the stomach.

4. When you lie down, keep your head at a higher level

Heartburn is when the food comes back out of your esophagus due to acid reflux. Use pillows and put your head at a higher level when you rest. This will prevent heartburn.

5. Over-the-counter medications

Only take over-the-counter medications prescribed by your doctor. It is also worth note that heartburn relievers are more effective than other medications in curing heartburn as they form a coating around the esophagus which can be harmful.