Can I play football while pregnant?

Yes, with medical support. The AFL National Community Football Policy Handbook (February 2026) says the AFL respects the right of pregnant, breastfeeding and carer players to take part and prohibits discrimination because of pregnancy.

• Strong recommendation: once you know you are pregnant, the AFL strongly recommends you do not take part in contact sporting activities, because of risks such as direct trauma and placental injury.
• Written medical confirmation: if you still want to train or play, you must first get written confirmation from your obstetrician or treating GP that it is safe for you and your baby. It must cover the risks, how long you can continue and whether modifications are needed.
• Regular reviews: you must have regular reviews with your obstetrician or GP throughout the pregnancy. You must stop if the confirmation is missing, the reviews are not happening, or your doctor no longer supports you playing.
• Insurance: the Australian Football National Risk Protection Program does not cover injuries wholly or partly attributable to pregnancy or childbirth.
• Club duties: your club must sight the written confirmation and keep everything you tell it about your pregnancy confidential unless you give written consent.