Dr. Rebecca Downs knew from a young age that she wanted to be involved in health care. Both her parents work in the medical field, and she even shadowed her dad in the operating room for "take your daughter to work day." During rotations in medical school, Dr. Downs found her passion for obstetrics and gynecology.
"I was drawn to obstetrics and gynecology because you can care for women throughout their lives," she said. "You have a privilege to be able to take care of them and educate them during young adulthood, then deliver their babies and continue that care all the way through menopause, helping with other conditions and education in between."
Dr. Downs focuses on connecting with her patients to hear about their concerns. As a physician, she provides information and options, so patients can have the best overall experience and be involved in their care.
In the surgical realm, Dr. Downs enjoys the process of surgery because you can impact a person's quality of life.
"You are able to perform a procedure that changes the rest of her life," she said.
Dr. Downs specializes in minimally invasive surgery to allow small incisions and shorter recovery time for the patient. She can perform robotic surgery, including myomectomy for the treatment of fibroids, treatments for pelvic organ prolapse, and more.
She also said bringing new life into the world is quite special. "Those are the things that make my job rewarding."
Dr. Downs earned her medical degree from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine & Public Health in 2009. She completed her internship and residency in obstetrics and gynecology at University of Wisconsin – Hospitals & Clinics. During her residency, Dr. Downs received a teaching award, which she is truly proud of because she can take those teaching skills into her role as a physician.
Outside of her practice, Dr. Downs is an active cyclist. She and her husband and daughters love outdoor activities like fishing, canoeing, camping and exploring new areas. In addition, she is a quilter. Dr. Downs can express her creativity through quilts and likes making something you can't find in stores.