Margie DavenportPronouns: she/her
- Faculty: Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation
- Position: Professor
- Research Areas: bone and musculoskeletal health, cardiovascular health, mental and behavioural health, sport/ exercise and physical activity
- Research Theme: Children's Health & Well-being, Lifelong Women's Health, Pregnancy & Developmental Trajectories
Summary:
Exercise has significant cardiovascular and metabolic benefits in non-pregnant populations. However, whether exercise during pregnancy can prevent or attenuate maternal vascular dysfunction related to adverse events in pregnancy is unknown. There is some evidence to suggest that exercise programs initiated prior to conception or early in the first trimester may promote placental growth and vascularity which may attenuate potential adverse fetal outcomes. As the short and long term influences of pregnancy, pregnancy-related diseases (GDM and pre-eclampsia) and exercise during pregnancy are not well understood, elucidating these mechanisms may assist in the long-term prevention of chronic disease. The primary aims of my research are to identify: 1) the mechanisms of maternal-fetal transmission of chronic disease risk, 2) whether exercise can play a role in the prevention of risk transmission, and 3) the short and long-term effects of pregnancy and exercise on maternal-fetal health.Stories this researcher is featured in:
Pregnant climbers may not have to stay grounded, study suggests
First direct evidence shows no increased risk of complications for those scaling into their third trimester.
Keeping moms in the game: FIFA launches guide for pregnant and post-partum players
New step-by-step decision tool developed with a U of A expert eliminates guesswork and empowers athletes to stay on the pitch safely.
Staying in the game
Dr. Margie Davenport’s research challenges outdated myths about exercise in pregnancy and offers critical insights for athletes who refuse to be sidelined.
Creating inclusive prenatal exercise guidelines for people with disabilities
While the benefits of exercise during pregnancy are well-documented, many individuals with disabilities lack health guidance that accounts for their unique needs.
World’s first stand-alone guidelines on postpartum exercise and sleep released in Canada
Evidence-based recommendations aim to support women in their first year as new moms.
Study confirms safety of high-intensity resistance training during pregnancy
U of A researchers provide new evidence that could lead to updated guidelines for pregnant women.
Policy changes needed to better support pregnant elite female athletes, say researchers
New study identifies key areas for actions to improve gender equity in sport at all levels.
Combatting depression and anxiety with exercise
Staying active during the pandemic has mental health benefits for pregnant and postpartum women.
The heart of a healthy pregnancy
A University of Alberta research team believes risky pregnancy complications could be prevented with a prescription for exercise.