The Business of Being Born Message Board

Q: I am pregnant with my third child. My last pregnancy I was on Zofran the entire pregnancy. I am beginning to get sick more often now and am very very sore. I am not having sharp pains, but just really sore all the time. Is this normal in third pregnancies to be so sore early on? I just started my third month this week. Thank you!

From Mrs. K

A: Dear Mrs. K, Most soreness is normal. However, without knowing the specifics, without meeting you, I cannot answer that definitively. It is a good sign that you don’t feel cramping, but without additional information, it is difficult for me to say more. Is your stomach “sore” from nausea? Are you sore near your round ligaments - you would feel relief if you bend your knees and prop them up on a chair. Is it your whole body? Your legs? Does it seem to be muscular, deep, superficial?

Because you are ending your first trimester, we usually hope to see the nausea resolve rather than get worse. If Zofran helped with your other pregnancy, I would definitely talk with your provider about the options of using Zofran again. Call your provider if the nauseousness is bad. Your provider may be able to call in a prescription for you to help you get relief quickly. Until then, you can try Vitamin B6 and ginger (tea, chews). It also helps to drink liquids separately from your meals. Eat small amounts frequently - give up on the idea of having a normal-sized breakfast/lunch/dinner. You should split each meal into smaller parts. Make sure you stay upright, maybe even walk a bit, after each meal.

I know this must be a frustrating response for you because I don’t have a clear answer. This is one of those times when I feel that you need to be reassured by your health care provider at a prenatal care visit. When you do speak with your provider, be able to answer some of the questions I posed about the soreness. It can help determine the source and possible remedies. As for now, be reassured that you felt nauseous and sore during your last pregnancy and all turned out well. It makes for a rough 7 months, but this may just be “normal” for you.

Good luck and feel well.
Hilary