Author(s): CARO, C., TROW, S., BELL, Z., RENARD, M., KLOSKOWSKA, P., BROWN, E., EDWARDS, L., FLYNN, A.C., LAVELLE, F. , Institution: RCSI & KING'S COLLEGE LONDON, Country: UNITED KINGDOM, Abstract-ID: 1390

Purpose:
An increasing number of female athletes navigate an athletic career alongside pregnancy. The role of nutrition and physical activity during pregnancy is well documented, however, evidence and recommendations are predominately based on the general population. Considering the high energetic demands and increased nutritional requirements of pregnant and postpartum athletes they may be vulnerable to low energy availability and wider health implications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the experiences, nutritional needs and wants of pregnant and post-partum athletes in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Methods:
Due to the exploratory nature of this research a mixed – method approach was adopted. Semi-structured online interviews were conducted in elite athletes ≥ 18 years old, who trained and/or competed at the highest level of their sport prior to and/or during pregnancy and reside in the UK. The topic guide explored athletes’ experiences in elite sport, specifically during preconception, pregnancy and the postpartum period. The interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed by thematic Analysis. An exploratory cross-sectional online survey assessing sociodemographic characteristics, sport involvement, women’s health, pregnancy and postpartum support, nutritional knowledge, diet quality and supplement behaviours was developed and disseminated across the UK and Ireland.

Results:
Eleven UK athletes (mean age 31 ± 3 years) from nine team and individual sports participated in the interviews. Six key pregnancy and postpartum themes were generated; (1) The identity shift: athlete to mother, (2) From podium to parenthood: preconception and pregnancy planning, (3) Is that my career over?: upon becoming pregnant, (4) Navigating the bump: elite training and pregnancy, (5) Back in the game: returning to sport postpartum and (6) “I’m not going through that again”: Lack of pregnancy and postpartum specific advice and support. The participants discussed the intrinsic and extrinsic challenges, decisions and considerations related to maternal health and elite sport.

Discussion
This study highlights the challenges athletes encounter in balancing an athletic career with motherhood and highlights a need for improved access to physical and mental health support, tailored nutrition guidance, and increased women’s health awareness to better support athletes during pregnancy and postpartum. The survey findings highlight areas that need future research.