Thank you for your question. Heartburn and constipation and other tummy problems are common with oral iron medication. Your doctor can change your prescription to a stomach friendly preparation or you can try Nutrilite Tri iron folic instead. How much and how often you need to take your iron depends on your current haemoglobin level and gestational age of your baby. Women who take iron supplements regularly do better in labour and delivery than those who do not so its not really an option not to take the iron just what brand suits you best. Thanks Best wishes