Pregnancy-Related Quad & Glute Pain: Causes & Relief

Question
Hi, I'm about 6 weeks pregnant and my upper thigh muscles and glutes have started getting really sore lately - not like cramps, but more like the feeling you get when you exercise too much on muscles that aren't used to it...except I haven't been exercising much, the only real thing I do is walk about 20-30 minutes a day, but that is far LESS than what I was doing a day before I got pregnant. I'm just wondering if it's normal for me to have sore muscles like this and if so, what's causing them? And apart from taking pain medication (which I really don't want to do), how can I help with the pain? I've tried stretching, heating pads, and hot showers/baths, and nothing seems to work....

Answer
Your symptoms are unusual, and don't seem to be related to exercise. Since your pain is severe enough that you need medication, I suggest that you consult with your OBGYN for an in depth evaluation and possibly a referral to a Physical Therapist who specilizes in prenatal care.