Current Research Studies

If you would like to participate or ask more questions about a research study, please email the contact listed.

Program for Pregnancy and Postpartum Health Studies

A number of research studies are ongoing at the University of Alberta Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport and Recreation.

Our research aims to improve the life-long health of pregnant and postpartum women and their children.

In support of this goal, we are currently recruiting participants for a number of studies:

1) A study examining the impact of poor sleep on pregnancy health,

2) A study examining the impact of sleep on vascular health during pregnancy,

3) A study examining athlete experiences of infertility, and

4) A study examining coaches and officials experiences of pregnancy and parenting.

Learn more about Exercise and Pregnancy Research here

Society, Pregnancy, Postpartum & Infant Neurodevelopment (SPPIN) Study

This research is really important because it help us to figure out how our lifestyle, the way we connect with people, and even the tiny organisms living in our guts can affect mental health during and after pregnancy, as well as child’s mental development.

If the SPPIN study discovers that the tiny organisms in our gut have something to do with a mom's mental health and her kid's brain growth, we might be able to use them to help families stay healthier, even when they're dealing with hard times.

People who join the study will be asked to fill out some questions about where they live, their daily life, and their mental health. They will also need to give stool samples for themselves and their babies so we can study the tiny organisms in their digestive system. Finally, trained experts, including a psychologist with advanced education, will check on the children’s growth and learning.

The SPPIN study is going to sign up 600 pregnant folks in Edmonton, Alberta, who are between 18 and 49 years and in their second trimester. We'll keep up with them and their little ones until the child turns three. We want to include expectant people from all walks of life!

Learn more about the SPPIN Study

Experience of New Parents in the 2020s

Contact Hanneke at hanneke@ualberta.ca