Heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest or throat, is a common discomfort experienced by many pregnant individuals. It often arises due to hormonal changes and the growing uterus placing pressure on the stomach, which can cause stomach acids to move upward into the esophagus. While harmless, this sensation can significantly impact comfort and quality of life during pregnancy. Finding effective relief is a frequent concern for expectant mothers.
Safety During Pregnancy
Tums, an over-the-counter antacid containing calcium carbonate, is safe for use during pregnancy when taken as directed. Healthcare providers often recommend it as a first-line treatment for heartburn in pregnant individuals. Its safety stems from its local action in the stomach, neutralizing acid.
Beyond its antacid properties, Tums also provides supplemental calcium, an important nutrient for both the pregnant individual and the developing baby. Pregnant individuals require between 1,000 mg and 1,300 mg of elemental calcium daily. Tums can contribute to meeting these increased calcium needs during pregnancy. However, those with a history of kidney stones or kidney disease should consult a healthcare professional before use.
How Tums Works
Tums functions through its active ingredient, calcium carbonate, a basic compound. When calcium carbonate comes into contact with the hydrochloric acid in the stomach, it neutralizes this acid. This chemical reaction produces calcium chloride, water, and carbon dioxide gas, reducing stomach acidity and alleviating heartburn.
The rapid neutralization of stomach acid provides quick relief from discomfort. While some calcium from calcium carbonate is absorbed by the body, this is seen as beneficial due to calcium’s role as an essential mineral. The local action of calcium carbonate in the digestive tract, rather than systemic absorption, is a key reason for its suitability during pregnancy.
Guidance for Use
When taking Tums during pregnancy, adhere to recommended dosages and follow label instructions. For regular strength Tums, guidance suggests chewing two to three tablets as symptoms occur, with a maximum of six tablets within a 24-hour period. For Tums Naturals, the maximum daily dose is five tablets in 24 hours for pregnant individuals. Take Tums one to three hours after meals when heartburn symptoms arise.
Consult a healthcare provider if heartburn symptoms persist for more than two weeks, worsen, or if there are any underlying health conditions. Avoid Tums products that contain other active ingredients, such as magnesium hydroxide or simethicone, unless specifically advised by a doctor. Antacids containing sodium bicarbonate should also be avoided due to the risk of fluid retention.
Other Heartburn Remedies
Beyond antacids like Tums, several lifestyle adjustments can help manage heartburn during pregnancy. Eating smaller, more frequent meals, instead of three large ones, can reduce stomach overload. Chewing food thoroughly and eating slowly aids digestion. Avoid trigger foods such as spicy, fatty, or fried items, as well as acidic foods like citrus and carbonated beverages.
Maintaining an upright position after eating for at least an hour can prevent acid from flowing back into the esophagus. Elevating the head of the bed by several inches during sleep can also help alleviate nighttime heartburn. If lifestyle changes are not sufficient, other over-the-counter options like H2 blockers (e.g., famotidine) or proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole) may be considered, but only after discussing with a healthcare provider.