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Examining the pregnancy and postpartum experiences of Para athletes in elite sport: a qualitative description study
Erica H Gavel-Pinos1, Tara-Leigh McHugh2, Margie H Davenport3
1Program for Pregnancy and Postpartum Health, Physical Activity and Diabetes Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport and Recreation, Women and Children's Health Research Institute, Alberta Diabetes Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Objective:
Pregnancy and postpartum experiences in elite sport remain underexplored for para athletes, despite the unique disability-related demands they face. The purpose of this study was to describe the lived experiences of pregnant and postpartum elite para athletes and to identify actionable steps for improving research, policy and sport environments to better support them.
Methods:
11 elite para athletes who had experienced pregnancy or the postpartum period while competing at an elite level within the past 10 years participated in this qualitative description study. Qualitative description was selected because it is well suited to describing participants' experiences in areas where limited evidence exists and to producing findings that remain close to participants' accounts while informing clinical practice, policy and future research. Data were generated through one-on-one semi-structured interviews that were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using conventional content analysis guided by Elo and Kyngäs' three-phase approach (preparation, organisation and reporting).
Results:
This study's overarching message highlights the unique and complex intersectional relationships between pregnancy and/or post partum, the demands of sport participation and the impact of disability in para athletes. Four interrelated themes described athletes' experiences: (1) disability-specific knowledge and education gaps, (2) training and equipment modifications during pregnancy and postpartum, (3) health, medical and psychosocial considerations and (4) policy, financial and organisational support. A common thread woven throughout all four themes was that para-sport athletes have a unique and complex intersectional relationship between pregnancy and post partum not typically observed in the able-bodied population. Across themes, athletes emphasised the importance of disability-informed care, practical support and equitable access to elite sporting environments.
Conclusion:
Grounded in the voices of para athletes, these findings highlight opportunities to develop disability-informed pregnancy and postpartum policies, enhance practitioner and coach education and reduce financial and logistical barriers. Addressing these systemic gaps is essential for ensuring safe and equitable participation in elite para-sport during pregnancy and post partum.