Elite Athletes Share Fears and Frustrations Around Pregnancy and Career Support

A groundbreaking qualitative study conducted by researchers at King's College London has highlighted the deep concerns of elite female athletes in the UK as they navigate pregnancy alongside their sporting careers.

The study, published in the Sports Medicine journal, draws from in-depth interviews with eleven athletes, shedding light on the systemic challenges, emotional toll, and policy gaps facing women in elite sport who choose to become mothers.

Key Findings

1. Pregnancy Planning and Career Sacrifices

Athletes reported that family planning was often dictated by the international sporting calendar. Major events like the Olympics influenced if and when they could conceive, with some delaying pregnancy to avoid jeopardising career-defining opportunities.

2. Fear of Discrimination and Financial Insecurity

Participants shared feelings of anxiety about disclosing their pregnancy to coaches and staff due to fears of being dropped from teams or losing financial backing. This led to a culture of secrecy, and in some cases, isolation.

3. Health Uncertainties and Reduced Training

Due to limited scientific guidance, many athletes were uncertain about how training might affect their pregnancy or the health of their child. As a result, most reduced their training volume and intensity, often without proper professional advice.

4. Menstrual and Fertility ConcernsAthletes also expressed concern over menstrual irregularities and hormonal imbalances caused by high-intensity training, raising questions about fertility and the impact on long-term reproductive health.

5. Gaps in Nutritional and Anti-Doping Guidance

The study identified a significant lack of pregnancy-specific nutritional advice for athletes. Participants struggled to find folic acid supplements that were both pregnancy-safe and compliant with anti-doping regulations.

6. Inconsistent Support StructuresWhile some athletes found strength and reassurance in peer networks, structural and institutional support varied widely. Many felt their desire to return to elite competition post-pregnancy was not taken seriously.

Research Impact and Future Implications

The research was conducted prior to the 2023 update of the UK Sport Pregnancy Guidelines, but its preliminary findings helped inform changes, particularly regarding nutrition and supplement support. However, the study stresses that further research is required to determine whether these policy changes are making a tangible difference for athletes on the ground.

Expert Commentary

“Sport is a powerful platform for empowering female athletes,” said Cat Caro, lead author. “We must continue to challenge outdated norms, bridge policy gaps, and champion a culture where motherhood and athletic excellence can coexist.”

Senior author Dr Fiona Lavelle added:

“Women's health remains a historically neglected area of research. The fact that even elite athletes—who theoretically have the highest levels of support—are struggling, signals a larger issue. If they can’t continue post-pregnancy, what hope is there for recreational athletes? The narrative must shift toward long-term support and inclusion.”

This study underscores the urgent need for sports bodies, healthcare providers, and policymakers to create comprehensive, evidence-based support systems for pregnant athletes. As more women look to balance peak performance with parenthood, bridging these gaps is no longer optional—it’s essential.