Rethinking Contact Sports During Pregnancy: Emerging Evidence Supports Safer Participation

Recent research from the University of Alberta is challenging long-standing assumptions about the dangers of contact sports during pregnancy. Traditionally, pregnant athletes have been advised to cease participation in such activities by the end of the first trimester, based on outdated injury data largely derived from automobile crash statistics. However, a new survey led by researcher Margie Davenport, in collaboration with the FIFA Women's Development Program, provides compelling evidence that the actual risks are significantly lower than previously thought.

The study collected data from 395 athletes, primarily soccer players from Australia, Canada, the UK, and the US, who continued engaging in contact sports during pregnancy. These athletes accumulated over 11,687 hours of contact exposure. Despite some experienced impacts categorized as "hard hits," the overall rate of adverse events was remarkably low at just 1.11 per 1,000 hours, with only 13 incidents reported, including injuries, bleeding, and a single miscarriage.

Davenport remarked on her findings, emphasizing that the perceived risks have been overestimated: "Our data show the risk is low. It's not zero—it's just far less than generally perceived." Beyond physical safety, the study highlighted the positive mental health benefits associated with maintaining sport participation during pregnancy. Many athletes found that staying active and involved in their sport helped manage stress and supported their identity.

While the research does not suggest continuing high-intensity contact play throughout pregnancy, it advocates for controlled, sport-specific activities such as one-on-one drills. Maintaining such activities could help athletes retain skills, reduce postpartum injury risks, and support mental well-being.

Moreover, the study underscores that reducing activity during pregnancy can lead to postpartum injuries and increased risk of pregnancy complications like pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, and hypertension. The findings encourage a re-evaluation of existing broad recommendations, advocating for more nuanced, evidence-based guidelines.

In conclusion, the evidence points towards a more permissive approach to contact sports during pregnancy, emphasizing controlled participation rather than complete cessation, with an aim to promote both physical safety and mental health for pregnant athletes.