Kate Cheney

Dr. Kate Cheney is an experienced midwife, nurse, researcher, and academic affiliated with the University of Sydney's School of Medicine. Her work focuses on maternal and newborn health, contraception, and midwifery practice. She holds a PhD (2018) and has conducted post-doctoral research supported by NHMRC funding. Current projects include studies on postpartum contraception in Australia, nitrous oxide use in maternity care, and contraceptive implant discontinuation in Fiji.

Education:

• PhD in Midwifery from University of Sydney School of Medicine (2018)
• Cert Midwifery, Ma Midwifery, BN (Nursing), RN

Research Interests:

• Postpartum contraception access and counseling
• Midwifery scope of practice
• Preconception health behaviors
• Global maternal health disparities

Key Contributions: Developed the London Measure of Unplanned Pregnancy integration into antenatal care, evaluated postpartum contraception training in Kiribati, and analyzed preconception behaviors through mobile health interventions. Her work emphasizes translating research into clinical practice improvements.

Awards:

• Dr Albert McKern PhD Scholarship (2015-2018)
• NHMRC Postdoctoral Fellowship (2019-2022)
• 2024 Sydney Health Partners Academic Prize

Professional Roles:

• Member of Reproductive, Maternal and Newborn Health Clinical Academic Group
• Australian College of Midwives/Australian College of Nurses member
• Associate at Curtin University
• Former NSW Nursing and Midwifery Council member

Current Affiliations:

• Sydney Institute for Women, Children and their Families
• LEAPP Guidelines Steering Committee