Postpartum Exercise: Episode 83 with Dr Margie Davenport

In today’s conversation , I have the pleasure of chatting with the phenomenal Dr Margie Davenport about her research, and driving the conversation forward to support female athletes in their pregnancy and postpartum journey.

• ​We talked about Margie's journey as an athlete herself, to pursuing research particularly in the realm of postpartum physical activity
• ​We also discussed the importance of creating a safe space for women to engage in physical activity postpartum, emphasizing the mental health benefits and the need to normalize exercise rather than pathologize postnatal recovery.
• ​Margie highlighted the evolution of guidelines and recommendations, with the consensus statement providing a more comprehensive approach to physical activity postpartum. Margie clarified that there are no absolute contraindications to exercise postpartum, only relative contraindications that require consultation with a healthcare provider.
• ​we also discussed the benefits of physical activity for pelvic floor health and mental health, and the importance of empowering women to take control of their health, as well as
• ​Exercise & Pain Management in Pregnancy
• ​Sleep, Physical Activity & Mental Health
• ​Postpartum Recovery & Exercise Timing

And much, much more! Here’s the link to the BJSM issue Margie edited in April 2025: https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/59/8

You can follow Margie on instagram at @exerciseandpregnancy and I’m there too @michellelyons_muliebrity

Want to learn more about supporting female athletes in the journey from menstrual through maternal and into menopause? My online Female Hormonal Health Masterclass is loaded with evidence based strategies to help you help women live well - you can find all of my online courses at CelebrateMuliebrity.com

See you next time, Onwards & Upwards! Mx