DESCRIPTION
Rehabilitation professionals play a vital role in helping athletes safely maintain activity during pregnancy and return to sport after childbirth. This webinar provides an evidence-based overview of the unique physiologic, hormonal and musculoskeletal changes that influence movement, performance, injury risk and rehabilitation throughout the peripartum period. Learners will review current exercise recommendations for pregnancy and examine how physiologic adaptations affect training and clinical decision-making. Rehabilitation professionals will be equipped with practical tools to confidently support active women across the peripartum continuum of care and their return to sports performance.

INSTRUCTORS (click on the name below to read faculty bio)
Monica Rho, MD

LEARNER OUTCOMES
Upon completion of this webinar, participants will be able to:  

1. Define current guidelines of exercise in the peripartum period
2. Describe physiologic changes and hormonal influences during pregnancy relevant to an athlete’s training and performance
3. Identify special considerations for musculoskeletal injuries unique to pregnancy in athletes
4. Summarize considerations for post-partum return to sport for elite athletes

SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION
Participants will watch the on-demand recording in its entirety and complete an assessment and feedback module in the Academy Learning Portal. You will have three months from the date of purchase to complete and review the course material. You will receive a reminder email two weeks before the expiration date.

AUDIENCE
Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy Assistants, Physical Therapists and Physical Therapist Assistants

CONTINUING EDUCATION
Occupational Therapists:

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is an AOTA Approved Provider of professional development. Course approval ID #17184. This distance learning independent webinar is offered at 1.0 contact hours, 0.10 CEUs [introductory level, foundational knowledge/OT service delivery]. The assignment of AOTA CEUs does not imply endorsement of specific course content, products, or clinical procedures by AOTA.

Physical Therapists: This online course has been approved by the Illinois Physical Therapy Board for 1.0 Contact Hours. Approval #216-000069

The Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is recognized by California and the New York State Education Department's State Board for Physical Therapy as an approved provider of physical therapy and physical therapist assistant continuing education for 1.0 Contact Hours on 11/5/2026.

Many states accept continuing education contact hours recognized in other states, enabling professionals to use these hours to meet their licensing or certification requirements. Please consult your state regulations to see if this meets CEU requirements for your license.

DISCLOSURES
Course Directors and Planning Committee Members:
Julie Lenkiewicz, MS, CCC-SLP Has nothing to disclose.
Melissa Kolski, PT, OCS, Dip MDT Has nothing to disclose.
Leslie Marriott, OTR/L Has nothing to disclose.
Selah Bustamante, MSN, RN, CRRN Has nothing to disclose.
Melissa Legreid, MSN, RN, CRRN, NPD-BC Has nothing to disclose.
Speakers, Moderators and Panelists:
Monica Rho, MD Has nothing to disclose.

ACADEMY POLICIES
For a complete list of Academy policies and technology requirements, click here.