Sandra DavidgePronouns: she/her
- Faculty: Medicine & Dentistry-Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Position: Professor
- Research Areas: bench-to-bedside research (laboratory to clinical application), fetal circulation, Hypertension Pregnancy-Induced, pre-clinical to population translation, preeclampsia
- Research Theme: Children's Health & Well-being, Lifelong Women's Health, Pregnancy & Developmental Trajectories
Summary:
The Davidge laboratory studies cardiovascular physiology with a specific interest in improving pregnancy outcomes. We study how the cardiovascular system adapts to pregnancy under normal circumstances, and investigate how these normal actions are impaired in pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a pregnancy specific condition (characterized by high blood pressure and vascular dysfunction) that affects 5-8% of pregnancies and impacts both the health of the mother and the child during pregnancy and later in life. The Davidge lab studies preeclampsia, but also other complications of pregnancy, such as reduced oxygen to the fetus and pregnancies at advanced maternal age (maternal age >35 years). Together with her trainees and collaborators, Dr. Davidge is striving to develop early intervention and prevention strategies to improve pregnancy outcomes that will also improve the long-term cardiovascular health for both the mother and her child.Stories this researcher is featured in:
Pregnant women should be monitored, treated for high cholesterol: researchers
Studies show low-dose aspirin could help prevent harm to both mothers and babies.
The reluctant visionary
From dairy cows to preeclampsia, Dr. Sandra Davidge's unlikely path led to a career defined by discovery, mentorship and quiet determination. Facebook
Largest gift in University of Alberta’s history continues historic partnership transforming women’s and children’s health
A $93.5-million commitment and 30-year collaboration is advancing research shaped by patients and improving care for families.
Verna’s Vlog with Sandra Davidge and Meghan Riddell
Provost Verna Yiu chats with Sandra Davidge and Meghan Riddell about the 20th anniversary of the Women and Children’s Health Research Institute.
WCHRI member forum highlights future directions and strategic growth
The WCHRI community came together on Feb. 25 to discuss the institute’s evolving research landscape and reflect on a year of significant impact.
WCHRI researchers unlock genetic puzzles for families worldwide
Now in its 20th year, the Institute is building a precision health pipeline to speed the journey from diagnosis and trials to lifesaving treatments for women and children
Medical student pursues pediatric research passion with WCHRI summer studentship
From 13 departments across 5 faculties, this year's trainees will explore a range of critical health challenges for women and children, from oncology to orthodontics.
WCHRI marks World Health Day’s focus on maternal and newborn health
This World Health Day, WCHRI is pleased to join global efforts to highlight the critical importance of improving maternal and newborn health and survival. This year’s theme resonates deeply with our mission to support innovative research that enhances the well-being of women, children and families.
Alberta declares March as Women’s Health Research Month
Landmark declaration comes as AWHF’s inaugural Luminaries Luncheon raises more than $500K for vital research.
WCHRI Town Hall 2025: Strategic initiatives take centre stage
WCHRI showcased its achievements and outlined ambitious plans for the future during its annual town hall meeting on Feb. 12.
Pregnancy complications can lead to mothers’ lifelong risk of cardiovascular disease
Researcher wins prestigious Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship to find out why and develop prevention strategies
Finding clues to determine risk factors for heart health later in life
New research uses precision medicine to predict a child’s future cardiovascular health
CIHR announces $6.7 million of new research funding for nine WCHRI members
Awards will fund projects that have potential for breakthroughs in women's and children’s health
Understanding the higher risk of cardiovascular disease after complicated pregnancies
Amanda de Oliveira seeks to understand the higher risk of cardiovascular disease after complicated pregnancies.
One Child Every Child
A Canada-first research initiative, with a vision for all Canadian children to be the healthiest, most empowered and thriving in the world
Sandra Davidge’s lab tour
Join us for a tour of WCHRI Executive Director Sandra Davidge's lab.
Male and female offspring born from complicated pregnancies show profoundly different response to heart drug
U of A study suggests both prenatal history and sex can be important factors in how we treat cardiovascular diseases in adulthood.
Four leading researchers named to Royal Society of Canada
WCHRI Executive Director Sandra Davidge was named to the Royal Society of Canada today, the country's oldest and most prestigious scholarly institute. Member Carla Prado was also named to the Royal Society of Canada's College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists.
Women’s health panel on Real Talk podcast show
VIDEO: A trio of women's health researchers were recently guests on the Ryan Jesperson "Real Talk" podcast.
Later life pregnancy increases future heart problems in children
Sandy Davidge and her team have shown that offspring born to older mothers have an increased likelihood of chronic heart problems. She's hoping an increased understanding will lead to improved interventions and potential new treatments.