Soo Downe has expertise in research into normal birth, quality of care, service user involvement, and positive (‘salutogenic’) ways of understanding what works in maternity care. She has been a co-author in three Lancet Series (Stillbirth; Midwifery; and Optimising Caesarean Section Use). Her team has a longstanding program of research into stillbirth, caesarean section, disadvantaged communities, migration and equity issues.
In addition, she and her colleagues have undertaken research into what matters, globally, for women and care providers during the antenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal periods. These studies have directly influenced the adoption of the concept of ‘positive experience’ that was used by WHO, for the first time, to frame their recent guidelines in these areas. She and the ReaCH (Research in Childbirth and Health) team have also contributed research and expertise as members of the Guideline Panels of a number of other WHO guidelines, relating to reducing unnecessary caesarean section; uterotonics for PPH; and (in progress) instrumental vaginal birth. Midwife-led continuity of care models are recommended in these guidelines for settings with well-functioning midwifery programmes.
In 2011 she received ‘The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE)’ for her services to midwifery.
More information on Soo Downe on the University of Central Lancashire website.