The Great Big Question Thread

bigworldlittleg

Ask and answer any and all questions here!

Try to place questions here rather than in “one off” threads - keeps the board looking cleaner and helps us all to get to know one another 🙂

redseawitch

Sore breasts are getting worse. Any tips?

bigworldlittleg

@redseawitch Can’t say I have any tips! Maybe forgo a bra whenever you can? If anything, it’s a good sign! 🤷🏻‍♀️

bigworldlittleg

@BumpAdmin Can we have this thread pinned? 🙂

watermelonsunshine

I just read that first trimester ultrasounds are often internal. I feel like no one talks about this?? 🙈

bigworldlittleg

@watermelonsunshine I think they only do a vaginal ultrasound if it’s 5 or 6 weeks. My 8 week dating scan last pregnancy was a normal one using a Doppler. Every OB office is different but I would say the vast majority of them don’t opt for the vaginal ultrasound unless they have a good reason for it!

watermelonsunshine

thank you!!

prettylittleowl

What are we doing about these cramping/growing pains? It comes and goes but man is it annoying!

bigworldlittleg

@prettylittleowl the round ligament pain sucks! I think Tylenol is all you can really take, but personally it doesn’t do much for me. Besides that I think just resting and not making any quick movements (like standing up fast or twisting) is the best you can do.

prettylittleowl

@bigworldlittleg thanks lady! Do you take regular or extra strength?

lappymom2019

redseawitch said:

Sore breasts are getting worse. Any tips?

I switched to stretchy nursing bras early my last pregnancy and I’ll probably do the same this time too because they are already huge and sore.

watermelonsunshine said:

I just read that first trimester ultrasounds are often internal. I feel like no one talks about this?? 🙈

My office does the transvaginal for the first appointment. I was surprised my first pregnancy but in the early stages it is much harder to see abdominally so it is more reliable. It isn’t really that bad but awkward.

lappymom2019

prettylittleowl said:

What are we doing about these cramping/growing pains? It comes and goes but man is it annoying!

I think lived in the bath my first pregnancy but walking and keeping from sitting too long for a given stretch helps too.

bigworldlittleg

prettylittleowl said:

@bigworldlittleg thanks lady! Do you take regular or extra strength?

I have regular strength at home, but extra strength is perfectly safe to take!

bayleafm

Last time I had a transvaginal ultrasound for my 8 week scan, apparently you can hear the babies heartbeat better. I have endometriosis and have had about a million of these scans throughout my life, they're not so bad!

bayleafm

If it's the joint pain then I use a heatpack on my back and I've been trying to do yoga and hip Opening stretches. The uterus cramping, if possible I try to lie down and just breathe through it. It doesn't last too long for me

prettylittleowl

What are we doing for heartburn? Is omeprazole an option?

bigworldlittleg

@prettylittleowl Yes! That’s what I took during my first pregnancy and it was the only thing that worked well for me. A lifesaver!

brittanny21

At what point does morning sickness start to kick in? I’m 5 1/2 weeks and I’ve had a little nausea but so far no full blown morning sickness. I’m honestly terrified that it can happen any time as I have a major aversion to being sick like that as it makes me extremely upset. 

beetay15

Tums! And I think you can also take Pepcid which lasts longer

beetay15

brittanny21 said:

At what point does morning sickness start to kick in? I’m 5 1/2 weeks and I’ve had a little nausea but so far no full blown morning sickness. I’m honestly terrified that it can happen any time as I have a major aversion to being sick like that as it makes me extremely upset. 

I have heard around week 7-8 is when most people will get more noticeable nausea. I’m 6w today and usually notice that in the afternoon and evening is when it’s worse for me but nothing really bad yet. 

_beckywhite_

@redseawitch It's important to consider a few potential factors that could be contributing to this discomfort, such as hormonal changes, menstrual cycles, or even physical activity. Here are some tips that may help alleviate the soreness:

1. Supportive Bra: Wearing a well-fitted, supportive bra can provide relief and reduce discomfort.
2. Warm Compress: Applying a warm compress can help soothe soreness and relax the muscles.
3. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Consider using over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen if necessary.
4. Lifestyle Adjustments: Reducing caffeine intake, maintaining a balanced diet, and managing stress through relaxation techniques can also be beneficial.

However, if the soreness continues to worsen or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and evaluation. Your health is important!

_beckywhite_

@watermelonsunshine It's definitely a topic that doesn't get as much attention as it should! First trimester ultrasounds can indeed be internal, especially if the healthcare provider wants clearer images early on in pregnancy. While it might feel daunting, it's a standard practice that helps ensure the health and development of the baby. Open communication with your healthcare provider can help ease any concerns you may have about the process. Don’t hesitate to ask questions; understanding what to expect can make a big difference in your experience!

_beckywhite_

@prettylittleowl It sounds like you're dealing with some frustrating cramping and growing pains. While these sensations can be common, especially during periods of growth or changes in activity levels, it's important to address them effectively. Consider trying gentle stretching exercises or heat therapy, which can often provide relief. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet may also help minimize discomfort. If the pain persists or worsens, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and potential treatments. Taking proactive steps now can significantly improve your comfort!

rainwaterdroplet

@brittanny21 With my first, it kicked in around 7 weeks and it was bad (ended up being Hyperemesis). Eat ginger or sour candy to take the edge off, when you see your OB ask about other options like Zofran!

_beckywhite_

@prettylittleowl For managing heartburn, omeprazole can indeed be an effective option. It belongs to a class of medications known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which work by reducing the amount of acid your stomach produces. This can help alleviate symptoms and provide relief from heartburn. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication, as they can assess your specific situation and determine if omeprazole is the best choice for you or suggest alternative treatments if necessary. Taking this step ensures that you receive the most appropriate care tailored to your needs.

_beckywhite_

@brittanny21 Morning sickness typically starts around 6 weeks of pregnancy, but it can vary widely from person to person. Some women may experience symptoms earlier or later, and in some cases, they might not experience significant morning sickness at all. It's understandable to feel anxious about the possibility of developing more intense symptoms. Keep in mind that nausea is quite common and often subsides by the end of the first trimester.

To help manage any feelings of nausea, try eating small, frequent meals throughout the day and stay hydrated. If your symptoms do become overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for support and guidance. You're not alone in this journey, and there are ways to cope with what you’re experiencing.

brittanny21

@beetay15 I feel more nauseous in the morning when I first wake up and start moving around and are 3pm ish. I’ll have to watch my symptoms closer over the next few weeks. Thank you!

brittanny21

@rainwaterdroplet Thank you for the advice! I will get some sour candies this weekend to have on hand. 

brittanny21

@_beckywhite_ thank you for the information! It’s greatly appreciated!

perrybaby25

Nausea help! I didn’t experience “morning sickness” with my previous pregnancies (this is my 4th). I’m nauseas in the middle of night and all day long. Have you tried anything that works? I have kept a snack by my bed, eaten more small meals, avoided fried foods. I’m 6w4d. 

littleyellowdragon

haneybaby said:

Nausea help! I didn’t experience “morning sickness” with my previous pregnancies (this is my 4th). I’m nauseas in the middle of night and all day long. Have you tried anything that works? I have kept a snack by my bed, eaten more small meals, avoided fried foods. I’m 6w4d. 

Preggie Pop Drops have always helped for me. Sipping on hot water with lemon and a ton of ginger helps, too. If you buy ginger ale, make sure it has real ginger in it. Cock and Bull is a good, strong brand! Protein can keep the nausea off, when you can stomach it. And of course if nothing else works, you can ask your doctor to prescribe something. Good luck! I know it is hard to function while nauseated. 

nsk489

Is it normal/common to have spotting? I had implantation bleeding with my first 2 pregnancies but no other spotting throughout the pregnancies. This time, no implantation bleeding but now I'm spotting. Just not sure if that's normal or not 

cheyenneduncan

Advice for severe headaches?

_ivk_

Anyone else experiencing cold like symptoms? Body aches, chills, same run down feelings as being sick with a cold or virus but basically no sore throat or congestion. Just a bit of a stuffy nose when I wake up in the morning but usually goes away shortly after waking 

bigworldlittleg

@nsk489 Yes, spotting is normal! I had some spotting at 6 weeks with my son, and just recently had some spotting (currently 6 weeks). If you notice it happening frequently for more than a few days, or the amount increases, you should check in with your doctor. But average spotting is definitely normal!

bigworldlittleg

@_ivk_ Your immune system is weakened when you're pregnant, so you're much more likely to pick up colds and feel worse from them. I've been sick for over a week now with a nasty cold!

_ivk_

Thanks! I guess with all the other symptoms I’m having it didn’t cross my mind I could actually just have a cold haha Hope you feel better soon!

nsk489

@bigworldlittleg thanks, the spotting changed over to red blood yesterday and into this morning. Currently waiting a call back from my doctor but I'm not feeling great about it 😞

bluejaybaby

@nsk489 thinking of you and hoping everything turns out okay

bigworldlittleg

@nsk489 I'm so sorry to hear this   

_beckywhite_

@brittanny21 You’re very welcome! I’m glad you found the information helpful. If you have any more questions or need further details, don’t hesitate to ask.