Studies
| Study Title: | Survey of physical activity and health during pregnancy in people with physical disabilities and health conditions |
| Rationale: | Physical activity (PA) before, during, and after pregnancy is encouraged to improve health. PA can reduce risk of hypertensive disorders (~40%) and depression (~67%) during pregnancy. Current research about PA during pregnancy (i.e., prenatal PA) focuses on people without pre-existing health conditions. As a result, there is limited information supporting prenatal PA among people with a physical disability or condition. This postdoctoral research study aims to examine prenatal PA and health in people with physical disabilities and health conditions. Findings from the survey will advance understanding of prenatal PA among people with physical health conditions and inform the development of inclusive prenatal PA guidance. |
| Study Description: |
The purpose of this study is to describe PA behaviours during pregnancy across people with diverse physical health conditions and examine relationships between PA during pregnancy and health outcomes. Findings will be used to create inclusive prenatal physical activity guidelines and inform strategies that support the well-being of pregnant individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
Participants must be 18 years of age or older, have a physical disability or health condition, and be currently pregnant or pregnant within the past 10 years. The researchers are looking for people with diverse abilities and conditions, including multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, chronic pain, and more. Individuals interested in participating will complete an online survey (approximately 30 minutes). Questions ask about health and disability, PA during pregnancy, health and delivery outcomes, and care experiences. Survey responses are anonymous. The consent form and survey can be accessed at the following link: https://redcap.link/surveyPD |
| Starting Dates: | 2026-06-08 |
| Ending Dates: | 2026-12-18 |
| Who can participate: | Individuals who are 18 years of age or older, have a physical disability or health condition, and are currently pregnant or were pregnant in the last 10 years. This survey is only available in English. |
| Trial Institution: | University of Alberta |
| Trial Investigator: | Fallon Mitchell, PhD; Margie Davenport, PhD |
| Contact Information: | For more information or questions, contact Dr. Mitchell at pregnant@ualberta.ca |
| Trial Funding: | Dr. Mitchell is supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Killam Laureates, and the Alberta Women’s Health Foundation through the Women and Children’s Health Research Institute. |