Examining experiences of returning to competitive sports after childbirth – take part in the survey!
We are recruiting mother athletes who have given birth to share their experiences. The MAMA study aims to explore the experiences of athletes who have attempted to return to competitive sport after childbirth. By gathering insights directly from athlete mothers, the study seeks to identify gaps in research and inform future improvements in sport policies and structures that better support women’s health, wellbeing, and long-term participation in sport.
Published
25.5.2026
About the MAMA project
MAMA is an Erasmus+ funded initiative that empowers mothers, to engage in physical activity as a pathway to health, wellbeing, and social inclusion. The project promotes sport not only as a performance objective, but as a sustainable lifestyle habit, and directly supports the EU strategy for gender equality in sport.
Participant profile
We are currently recruiting athletes who:
- Became pregnant during their sporting career
- Gave birth and attempted to return to competitive sport after childbirth (since 2011)
- Competed at local level or higher (up to Olympic level)
- Train regularly (approximately 3 times per week or more)
- Identify with a specific sport and train with the intention to compete
The survey takes approximately 15–25 minutes, participation is voluntary and anonymous. All responses are handled in line with ethical and data protection standards.
Link to the survey: https://redcap.jyu.fi/surveys/?s=WEK38KRDMERANYKA
More information:
Bam Hennessy
Phone: +358503544511
Email: richard.s.hennessy@jyu.fi
