Consuming Antacids During Pregnancy

Many women experience heartburn and indigestion during pregnancy. This happens because the placenta initiates progesterone release, which slows digestion. In addition, it relaxes the connecting valves between the stomach and food pipe, leading to acid travelling upwards. Antacids curb digestion-related problems, and these discomforts are often managed with antacids, but this raises important questions about the safety of both the mother and the developing fetus. As expectant mothers seek relief from gastrointestinal distress, understanding the safety and potential risks of antacids becomes crucial. Read on to learn whether consuming antacids in pregnancy is safe to ensure both mother and baby’s health and well-being.

How Do Antacids Work?

The stomach is responsible for breaking up food into digestible substances that can be absorbed by the intestines. However, there are instances where an imbalance in the production of stomach acids can lead to discomfort. Antacids are used to regulate this imbalance and help restore balance in the digestive system (1).

Is It Safe to Take Antacid While Pregnant?

An antacid syrup can help provide instant relief against heartburn and acidity during pregnancy. Syrups are preferred over antacid tablets while pregnant as the syrup variety can readily dissolve and work faster. The majority of available antacids are safe to consume. However, there are some which can be quite dangerous and even lead to a miscarriage. The key is to have antacids in moderation and get your doctor’s approval (10).

What if You Consume Too Many Antacids During Pregnancy?

Antacids, which are formulated from different substances such as magnesium, calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, and aluminium, can have different effects on the body (3). It’s a general rule that anything consumed in excess can be harmful, and antacids are no exception. This means that even though antacids are designed to alleviate discomfort, excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as constipation, vomiting, anaemia, and kidney stones.

Which Antacids Are Safe for Pregnant Women?

When it comes to managing heartburn and indigestion during pregnancy, choosing the right antacid is essential for the safety of both the mother and the developing baby. Here are some safe antacids you can take while pregnant to provide effective relief without compromising health.

1. Magnesium Based

These are considered to be safe for pregnant women and work well when it comes to tackling indigestion.

2. Calcium Carbonate Based

This set of antacids is also not known to have any adverse side effects for pregnant women. They are effective when it comes to relief, as they work instantly (9).

Which Antacids Are Unsafe for Pregnant Women?

While some antacids are safe for use during pregnancy, others can pose risks to both the mother and the developing fetus. Here are a few antacids that are considered unsafe during pregnancy.

1. Aluminium Based

This type of antacid can cause constipation and do more harm than good in terms of pain relief. In addition, continuous consumption of aluminium is toxic and can lead to issues such as miscarriage.

2. Sodium Bicarbonate Based

The problem with this type of antacid is that it leads to water retention, which is a feature of sodium. During pregnancy, women always face problems, such as swollen ankles and wrists, due to water. The sodium content in this antacid would only compound this problem (7).

Reasons to Avoid Antacids When Pregnant

While it may be convenient to consume antacids at the slightest discomfort, here are some reasons you may want to think twice.

1. Reduces Acid Production

While antacids are supposed to help regulate stomach acid production, excess use can reduce this, leading to poor digestion.

2. Complications in the Last Trimester

It is best to avoid antacids during this time as the body is vulnerable to the slightest side effects. Even relatively safe antacids, such as magnesium, have been known to interfere with contractions (11).

3. Side Effects

Every person’s body type is unique, and antacids can react differently based on this. Some may experience unpleasant side effects such as dizziness, stomach cramps, and vomiting.

4. Anaemia

Most antacids are loaded with calcium, leading to the poor absorption of iron in the body. A pregnant woman is already vulnerable to anaemia, and antacids make the situation worse.

5. Kidney Stones

As previously mentioned, most antacids contain large amounts of calcium. This has the negative effect of preventing proper calcium absorption by the body. The calcium is then passed on to the bladder from the kidney, where it comes together to form kidney stones (4).

6. Alkaline Stomach Acid

Consumption of antacids on a regular basis can lead to stomach acids becoming alkaline. This will reduce the acids’ ability to successfully break down food for further digestion.

7. Acid Rebound

There can be some instances where the stomach reacts to the frequent use of antacids. The stomach will increase the production of acids to overcome the neutralising effect of the antacid. As a result, the moment you go without antacids for a few days, you will suffer from severe acidity.

8. Constipation

Once again, calcium is the big culprit here. Excess calcium causes the intestinal muscles to relax, which can lead to a delay in the body’s processing of food. As the food takes longer to reach the rectum, it begins to harden with time, leading to constipation (12).

Natural Alternatives to Antacids

For expectant mothers seeking relief from heartburn and indigestion without the use of antacids, natural alternatives can be both effective and safe. These options can provide comfort while minimising risks to the developing baby. Here are a few natural alternatives:

• Bananas have natural antacid properties and can help soothe the stomach lining, reducing discomfort.
• Ginger tea is known for its soothing properties and can help alleviate indigestion and nausea (6).
• Eating a handful of almonds can neutralise stomach acids and relieve heartburn.
• Diluting a small amount of apple cider vinegar in water and drinking it can help balance stomach pH and improve digestion (5).

In addition, you will need to make changes in your lifestyle that can help avoid acidity in the first place. This includes:

• Avoid having large meals, as the stomach needs to produce more acid. Small meals mean fewer acids, leading to fewer chances of acidity and heartburn (2).
• Tight-fitting clothes can press against the abdomen. With the baby pushing on one side and clothes on the other, the acid will push itself up and lead to heartburn.

FAQs

1. Can antacids interfere with prenatal vitamins or other medications?

Yes, antacids can interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients and medications, including prenatal vitamins. For instance, they can hinder the absorption of iron, which is crucial during pregnancy. To avoid this, it is recommended that pregnant women take antacids and prenatal vitamins at different times of the day (8).

2. Are there any long-term risks associated with frequent antacid use during pregnancy?

While occasional use of antacids is generally considered safe during pregnancy, frequent or long-term use may carry risks. Overuse of certain antacids, particularly those containing high levels of sodium or aluminium, can lead to complications such as electrolyte imbalances, kidney issues, and interference with nutrient absorption. It’s essential for pregnant women to use antacids sparingly and under the guidance of their healthcare provider to avoid potential long-term risks and ensure a healthy pregnancy.

You can choose which way you wish to go. While some might try to avoid antacids while pregnant, for others, antacids may help make life easier. If you are unsure how to go about this, book an appointment with a dietician. They know how food works and can even give you a schedule and chart to minimise the chances of acidity.

References/Resources:

1. Salisbury. B. H, Terrell. J. M; Antacids; StatPearls Publishing; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526049/

2. Vazquez. J. C; Heartburn in pregnancy; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4562453/

3. Wienbeck. M, Erckenbrecht. J, Strohmeyer. G; Effect of antacids on intestinal motility; PubMed; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6858402/

4. Calcium; Oregon State University; https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/minerals/calcium#function

5. Campos. M; Apple cider vinegar… for heartburn?; Harvard Health Publishing; https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/apple-cider-vinegar-for-heartburn-2018032813530; May 2022

6. Herbal remedies for heartburn; Harvard Health Publishing; https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/herbal-remedies-for-heartburn; July 2023

7. Law. R, Maltepe. C, Bozzo. P, Einarson. A; Treatment of heartburn and acid reflux associated with nausea and vomiting during pregnancy; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2821234/#

8. Indigestion and heartburn in pregnancy; NHS; https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/related-conditions/common-symptoms/indigestion-and-heartburn/

9. Feeling the burn? Tips to manage heartburn, GERD in pregnancy; University of Texas Southwestern Medical Cente; https://utswmed.org/medblog/heartburn-gerd-pregnancy/

10. Antacids; NHS; https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/antacids/

11. Altuwaijri. M; Evidence-based treatment recommendations for gastroesophageal reflux disease during pregnancy: A review; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9439837/

12. Over-the-counter antacids for heartburn; Harvard Health Publishing; https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/over-the-counter-antacids-for-heartburn; February 2021

Also Read: 

Essential Oils during Pregnancy
Home Remedies for Heartburn in Pregnancy
Is Amino Acid Safe for Pregnant Women?
Folic Acid Rich Foods & It’s Importance when Pregnant

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