Overview
Body Locations and Systems
Status
Recruiting
Start/End Dates
Locations
Robert H.N. Ho Research Centre
Name/Title
Charlie Waugh, Research Associate
Phone
Email Address
Purpose of Study
The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between pregnancy, hormones and tendon adaptation. Pregnancy causes significant hormonal changes that affect many body systems, including the musculoskeletal system. Hormones play an important role in softening pelvic ligaments to prepare for childbirth; however, their effects may be more far-reaching. Receptors for estrogen, progesterone and relaxin have been found in peripheral ligaments and tendons, suggesting these hormones may directly influence connective tissues beyond the pelvis. The impact of pregnancy-related hormones on weight-bearing limb tendons has not been adequately investigated but could be important for joint stability and movement control.
This research study involves four visits to the research lab at Vancouver General Hospital — one in each trimester and one at 12 months post-partum. At each visit the study team will ask participants to complete a short questionnaire, collect a urine sample for hormone analysis and conduct non-invasive musculoskeletal tests involving ultrasound imaging and motion capture methods that provide information on muscle strength, balance and locomotion.
Eligibility
This study is open to persons actively trying to get pregnant and newly pregnant persons (<12 weeks) aged 19 years and above. Pregnant persons should be at least moderately active; defined as engaging in 150 minutes or more of moderate-intensity physical activity (activities that increase heart rate and breathing while still allowing conversation). Participants must be proficient in English language.
Disclaimer
Study Coordinators and Research Nurses cannot give medical advice over the phone. Telephone numbers and email addresses are provided for obtaining additional information on specific research studies only. If you have specific questions which require clinical expertise, please call your primary care physician.
The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between pregnancy, hormones and tendon adaptation. Pregnancy causes significant hormonal changes that affect many body systems, including the musculoskeletal system. Hormones play an important role in softening pelvic ligaments to prepare for childbirth; however, their effects may be more far-reaching. Receptors for estrogen, progesterone and relaxin have been found in peripheral ligaments and tendons, suggesting these hormones may directly influence connective tissues beyond the pelvis. The impact of pregnancy-related hormones on weight-bearing limb tendons has not been adequately investigated but could be important for joint stability and movement control.
This research study involves four visits to the research lab at Vancouver General Hospital — one in each trimester and one at 12 months post-partum. At each visit the study team will ask participants to complete a short questionnaire, collect a urine sample for hormone analysis and conduct non-invasive musculoskeletal tests involving ultrasound imaging and motion capture methods that provide information on muscle strength, balance and locomotion.
This study is open to persons actively trying to get pregnant and newly pregnant persons (<12 weeks) aged 19 years and above. Pregnant persons should be at least moderately active; defined as engaging in 150 minutes or more of moderate-intensity physical activity (activities that increase heart rate and breathing while still allowing conversation). Participants must be proficient in English language.
Study Coordinators and Research Nurses cannot give medical advice over the phone. Telephone numbers and email addresses are provided for obtaining additional information on specific research studies only. If you have specific questions which require clinical expertise, please call your primary care physician.
