Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD) is often called acid reflux or heartburn. It happens when stomach contents (like food, liquids, and stomach acid), flow back into the esophagustooltip. Certain food and drinks, lifestyle habits (like eating right before bed) can trigger or worsen acid reflux. While occasional acid reflux is normal, GERD is when this happens often (like after every meal), leading to uncomfortable symptoms or health problems.
The main symptom of GERD is a burning feeling when stomach contents or acid move back into the esophagus. Other symptoms can include coughing, hoarseness (a raspy voice), chest discomfort or throat irritation, trouble sleeping, nausea, burping, pain or bloating in the upper abdomen, and sometimes even vomiting.
GERD is one of the most common digestive issues during pregnancy, affecting nearly 1 out of 2 pregnant persons in the third trimester tooltip. During pregnancy, higher levels of hormones like estrogen and progesterone can relax the muscle between the stomach and esophagus, making it easier for acid to move back up. As the baby grows, it puts pressure on the stomach, which can make GERD symptoms, like heartburn, more common.
Most people notice GERD symptoms in the first or second trimester, with heartburn becoming more frequent and intense during the last few months of pregnancy.