When you're pregnant, it may be impossible to avoid getting heartburn. As your baby grows larger and takes up more space, she pushes against all the organs inside your abdomen. When your stomach becomes squished, it is more likely you will get heartburn and have acid reflux during pregnancy. Due to heartburn, acid reflux and upset stomach that pregnant women experience, most health--care providers recommend an antacid, since antacids are safe and effective.
Folic Acid During Pregnancy
Your doctor may recommend a supplement or prenatal vitamin that contains folic acid. Folic acid is important for everyone, but it's especially important for your unborn child. Folic acid can help prevent some birth defects, mainly those related to the spine and brain, according to the American Pregnancy Association and WomensHealth.gov. The American Pregnancy Association recommends that you take folic acid prior to becoming pregnant to reduce the risk of neural tube birth defects and to continue taking folic acid throughout your entire pregnancy. The recommended dosage of folic acid is 400 mcg, unless your health-care provider recommends a different amount. You may need more or less depending upon diet and pregnancy risks or complications.
Side Effects
It is possible to get too much folic acid, especially when taking it in a supplement form in addition to your diet. It's almost impossible to overdose on folic acid from diet alone. Side effects of excess folic acid include fatigue, weakness, mental confusion, loss of appetite, constipation, tingling or pain in mouth, bitter taste in mouth, difficulty sleeping and irritability.
Tums
Tums is an antacid designed to help neutralize stomach acid, which helps alleviate heartburn and acid reflux. It is rich in calcium, which is an important nutrient to expectant mothers. According to Drugs.com, there are no links between antacids or acid reducers, such as Tums, and birth defects, which is extremely important to expectant parents. Drugs.com also notes that over-the-counter antacids are generally safe during pregnancy, as long as you avoid chronic high doses. Chronic overuse of antacids containing calcium, aluminum and magnesium may increase the risk of birth defects.
Considerations
If you suffer from chronic or severe heartburn, upset stomach or acid reflux during pregnancy, discuss your condition with your doctor. Your condition may require a prescription-strength antacid during pregnancy, or you could possibly have a more serious complication such as esophagitis, gastritis or acid reflux disease. Avoid foods that can cause or worsen heartburn and stomach acid -- such as tomato sauces, caffeine, citrus fruits and carbonated drinks -- and don't lie down too soon after eating.
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