Stomach Ulcer During Pregnancy: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Identifying stomach ulcer symptoms and causes can help find a suitable treatment.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Michael Tahery, MD Dr. Michael Tahery Dr. Michael TaheryMD MomJunction on FacebookFollow MomJunction on TwitterFollow MomJunction on YouTubeFollow MomJunction on InstagramFollow MomJunction on Instagram Specialty: Obstetrics & Gynecology, UrogynecologyExperience: 20 years
Written by , MSc shreeja pillai MSc Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Pharma and HealthExperience: 2.5 years
Edited by , BSc Rebecca Malachi BSc Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Pregnancy, Health and WellnessExperience: 12 years
Fact-checked by , M.Pharm, PhD Dr. Joyani Das M.Pharm, PhD Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Pharma, Health and WellnessExperience: 3.5 years
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Representation Of Stomach Ulcer During Pregnancy

Image: ShutterStock

A stomach ulcer during pregnancy is an uncommon and unpleasant condition that causes a burning sensation and discomfort in the stomach. It could further lead to bouts of vomiting and nausea, which may compel you to visit your doctor. If you are concerned that you have the signs of a peptic or stomach ulcer, consult a doctor. This condition is treatable with specific antacids that are safe for consumption during pregnancy. Read on as we discuss the possible causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of stomach/peptic ulcers.

In This Article

Key Pointers

  • Peptic ulcers are common during pregnancy and can cause abdominal pain and discomfort.
  • The common cause of peptic ulcers during pregnancy is infections.
  • Diet and lifestyle changes can help minimize symptoms of peptic ulcers during pregnancy.
  • Treatment options for peptic ulcers during pregnancy include antacids that do not contain bicarbonate.

Understanding Stomach Ulcers

Nausea and vomiting may cause stomach ulcers during pregnancy
Image: iStock

A stomach ulcer, also known as gastric ulcer, occurs when the mucus lining of the intestine or stomach erodes. The erosion affects the stomach acids and damages the stomach walls (1).

Apart from stomach ulcers, certain other disorders related to the digestive system are also common during pregnancy.

The most common gastrointestinal issues during pregnancy are as follows (2):

  1. Vomiting and nausea
  2. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)iA digestive disorder that occurs when Stomach acid flows back to the esophagus
  3. Irritable bowel syndrome
  4. Constipation

Nausea, vomiting, and symptomatic GERD or acid reflux are common pregnancy symptoms. However, stomach ulcer disease occurs less frequently in pregnant women.

protip_icon Research finds
Pregnant women may have some degree of protection from peptic ulcer disease due to decreased gastric acid output and enhanced protective mucus production caused by the increasing progesteroneiA reproductive hormone secreted by the corpus luteum and placenta (during pregnancy) to prepare the uterus for pregnancy levels (12).

What Are The Causes Of Stomach Ulcer During Pregnancy?

Stomach ulcers usually occur due to an imbalance in the digestive juices in the stomach, which protect the stomach lining. This imbalance can be caused by a bacterial infection due to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) or regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS)iMedicines used for treatment of pain, swelling, and fever such as aspirin and ibuprofen (3). A family history of ulcers, acid reflux, stress, and emotional changes can also increase the risk of developing stomach ulcers during pregnancy. Also, a woman with a history of peptic ulcer and a smoking habit is more likely to develop ulcers during pregnancy (4).

Symptoms Of Stomach Ulcer During Pregnancy

Here are some of the symptoms of stomach ulcers in pregnancy (3):

  1. Nausea and vomiting
  2. Bloating
  3. Heartburn
  4. Severe pain in the middle or upper part of the abdomen
  5. Dark or black coloured stools due to bleeding.
  6. Weight loss
  7. Indigestion

In situations where you are experiencing sharp pain in your tummy or vomiting blood, please visit your general practitioner as this could be a serious complication, such as internal or gastrointestinal bleeding (1).

How Is Stomach Ulcer Diagnosed During Pregnancy?

Stomach ulcers are typically diagnosed with an esophagogastroduodenoscopyiA procedure to examine the upper gastrointestinal tract (EGD) or upper endoscopy.

In this procedure, a tube is inserted through the mouth to inspect the stomach. This is the preferred method for diagnosing stomach ulcers since it can also detect small ulcers (5).

How Is Stomach Ulcer Treated During Pregnancy?

Use antacids safe for pregnancy to manage the symptoms
Image: iStock

If you are diagnosed with stomach ulcers during pregnancy, your doctor may prescribe antacidsiA substance that neutralizes the acid present in the stomach , as they are considered safe. When it comes to taking antacids during pregnancy, doctors do not prescribe ones containing bicarbonate since they can cause fluid buildup (6). Rather, your doctor may prescribe antacids containing magnesium or aluminum in normal doses (7).

protip_icon Quick fact
Omeprazole may be prescribed for treating stomach ulcers during pregnancy and preventing their related complications without any noticeable side effects (8).

How Can Stomach Ulcer Be Prevented During Pregnancy?

1. Avoid certain foods

Eating fried food during pregnancy may lead to stomach ulcers
Image: Shutterstock

If you are experiencing stomach ulcer during pregnancy, avoid foods that may aggravate the disorder, such as the following (9):

  • Fried and highly processed foods contain high salt, sugar, and fat levels, which can increase the risk of stomach ulcers.
  • Citrus fruits have a high dietary acidic load, which can contribute to an acidic environment in the stomach.
  • Sodas can irritate the stomach lining and lead to digestive issues.

You may consult your OB/GYN for alternatives to curb your cravings for fast food or something sour.

2. Medication

Avoid consuming NSAIDs regularly or in high doses as they can damage the stomach lining and cause ulcers (1).

3. Avoid Alcohol

Consuming alcohol is harmful to your growing baby. Further, if you have stomach ulcers, it is necessary to avoid alcohol consumption as it will further deteriorate your digestive system by causing inflammation and irritation in the stomach lining (3) (9).

3. Quit smoking

Avoid smoking and alcohol during pregnancy
Image: Shutterstock

Smoking is harmful to your lungs and your developing fetus. Also, if you have stomach ulcers, smoking may cause complications that may affect your unborn baby (3). Additionally, smoking increases the risk of developing stomach ulcers as well by disrupting the protective layer of the stomach lining, reducing blood flow, prostaglandin production, and formation of blood vessels in the tissue (10).

5. Lifestyle modifications

In addition to avoiding certain foods, some other lifestyle modifications, such as eating healthy and regular exercise can also help improve your digestive health during pregnancy. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020–2025 recommends pregnant women to include fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fat-free or low-fat dairy and nondairy products, and protein-rich foods (11). You can also incorporate meditation and yoga into your lifestyle to curb and manage stress-related digestive issues. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight as per the gestational age and eating small portions of food frequently, can further help to tackle digestive issues during pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can pregnancy worsen stomach ulcers?

There is not much known about this. On the contrary, a few studies suggest that the frequency of complications and symptoms of stomach ulcers might decrease in pregnancy which could be associated with the protective mucus production (due to an increase in progesterone hormone) during pregnancy (7) (12).

2. What happens if you have an ulcer while pregnant?

Ulcers such as stomach ulcers, although rare, may result in middle or upper stomach pain during pregnancy and cause discomfort to the expectant mother. Nonetheless, it is crucial to avoid exposure to possible triggers and visit a doctor if you have a history of ulcer diseases to achieve a timely diagnosis and prompt treatment to prevent the risk of further complications (12).

3. Can stress during pregnancy contribute to the development of stomach ulcers?

While stress does not directly cause stomach ulcers, it might be a triggering factor since the body’s innate response to stress can elevate stomach acid production, contributing to ulcer formation. In addition, some people may use NSAIDs and alcohol to combat stress, both of which are recognized as factors that contribute to the development of stomach ulcers (13).

4. Can stomach ulcers during pregnancy cause preterm labor or other complications?

A study reported that stomach ulcers during pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm birth and other complications such as babies born small for the gestational age and low birth weight babies (14).

5. Can stomach ulcers during pregnancy cause long-term health problems?

Stomach ulcers are usually treatable; but rarely they may lead to serious complications such as internal bleeding, perforation, and gastrointestinal obstruction (15) (7).

6. What dietary changes can help manage stomach ulcers during pregnancy?

Since pregnant women are advised not to take certain medicines, dietary change is important to help manage stomach ulcers. These dietary changes include eating fiber-rich foods, such as vegetables, fruits, oats, barley, beans, and lentils, following healthy eating patterns like the Mediterranean diet or DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, and limiting caffeine intake, in addition to avoiding spicy and deep-fried foods (16).

A stomach ulcer during pregnancy may primarily emerge due to a bacterial infection or long-term use of NSAIDs. Though the condition is manageable by specific antacids that are safe to be used in pregnancy, you might experience abdominal discomfort due to stomach ulcers. Consult your doctor if you have symptoms of stomach ulcers for appropriate treatment interventions to relieve your discomfort. Nevertheless, following specific preventive measures such as avoiding spicy, fried foods, overuse of unprescribed medications, and staying away from smoking and alcohol may help alleviate the condition and its subsequent adverse effects.

Infographic: Symptoms Of Stomach Ulcer During Pregnancy

Expecting mothers might experience gastrointestinal issues such as peptic ulcer disease. Since it causes significant discomfort, it is best to get evaluated to avoid complications. So, scour through this infographic to understand the possible indications of stomach ulcers when pregnant.

possible signs of stomach ulcers while pregnant (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Illustration: PepticStomach Ulcer In Pregnancy: Causes Symptoms & Treatment

stomach ulcer during pregnancy_illustration

Image: Dall·E/MomJunction Design Team

Discover the causes of heartburn during pregnancy, ways to manage it and other expert tips via this informative video.

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.
  1. Overview: Stomach ulcer.
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stomach-ulcer/
  2. Gastrointestinal Issues During Pregnancy.
    https://www.lifespan.org/centers-services/multidisciplinary-obstetric-medicine-service-moms/gi-issues-pregnancy#:~:text=Some%20of%20the%20most%20common%20gastrointestinal%20issues%20women%20experience%20during,gallstones%2C%20diarrhea%2C%20and%20constipation
  3. Peptic Ulcer Disease.
    https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/peptic-ulcer-disease#:~:text=The%20inside%20wall%20of%20the
  4. P A Michaletz-Onody; (1992); Peptic ulcer disease in pregnancy.
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1478737/
  5. Peptic Ulcer Disease.
    https://gi.org/topics/peptic-ulcer-disease/#:~:text=An%20EGD%20
  6. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) During Pregnancy
    https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/aa130363#:~:text=During%20pregnancy%2C%20do%20not%20use,carbonate%20(such%20as%20Tums)
  7. Mitchell S. Cappell; (2003); Gastric and duodenal ulcers during pregnancy.
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12635419/
  8. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
    https://www.medicinesinpregnancy.org/leaflets-a-z/proton-pump-inhibitors/
  9. What are the best foods to eat with a stomach ulcer?
    https://opa.org.uk/what-are-the-best-foods-to-eat-with-a-stomach-ulcer/
  10. L Ma et al.; (1998); Effects of cigarette smoking on gastric ulcer formation and healing: possible mechanisms of action.
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9872502/
  11. Health Tips for Pregnant Women.
    https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/healthy-eating-physical-activity-for-life/health-tips-for-pregnant-women
  12. P A Michaletz-Onody; (1992); Peptic ulcer disease in pregnancy.
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1478737/
  13. Can stress cause stomach ulcers?
    https://health.clevelandclinic.org/can-stress-give-you-an-ulcer
  14. Yi- Hua Chen phD et al; (2010); Increased risk of low birthweight, infants small for gestational age, and preterm delivery for women with peptic ulcer.
    https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0002937809011016
  15. Stomach ulcer- complications.
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stomach-ulcer/complications/
  16. Healthy Eating Guidelines For People with Peptic Ulcers.
    https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthy-eating-physical-activity/conditions/digestive/healthy-eating-guidelines-people-peptic

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Dr. Michael Tahery
Dr. Michael TaheryMD
Dr. Michael Tahery is an American board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist practicing in Los Angeles for more than 20 years. He graduated in ob/gyn from the University of New York and Advanced Pelvic Surgery and Urogynecology from The Mayo Clinic.

Read full bio of Dr. Michael Tahery
shreeja pillai
shreeja pillaiMSc
Shreeja holds a postgraduate degree in Chemistry and diploma in Drug Regulatory Affairs from the University of Mumbai. Before joining MomJunction, she worked as a research analyst with a leading multinational pharmaceutical company.

Read full bio of shreeja pillai
Rebecca Malachi
Rebecca MalachiBSc
Rebecca is a pregnancy writer and editor with a passion for delivering research-based and engaging content in areas of fertility, pregnancy, birth, and post-pregnancy. She did her graduation in Biotechnology and Genetics from Loyola Academy, Osmania University and obtained a certification in ‘Nutrition and Lifestyle in Pregnancy’ from Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU).

Read full bio of Rebecca Malachi
Dr. Joyani Das
Dr. Joyani DasM.Pharm, PhD
Dr. Joyani Das did her post-graduation from Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra and PhD in Pharmacology. Previously, she worked as an associate professor, faculty of Pharmacology, for two years. With her research background in preclinical studies and a zeal for scientific writing, she joined MomJunction as a health writer.

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