Dr. Andrea Schaeffer, MD

Dr. Andrea Schaeffer, MD is an Obstetrics and Gynecology physician practicing at HCA Florida West Women's Health – 7th Floor in Pensacola, FL. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), she is dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive care. Your OB/GYN is your primary partner in preventive health, collaborating with you to create a long-term wellness plan, coordinate essential screenings, and manage your overall health, ensuring you thrive for years to come. She serves all ages of women, from adolescence through menopause and beyond, and is currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Please call (863) 588-4193 to schedule.

Dr. Schaeffer is an obstetrician gynecologist in Pensacola, FL, affiliated with HCA Florida West Hospital. She is accepting new patients and provides consultations primarily in English. Her commitment to collaborative, evidence-based medicine is evident in her approach to care, creating a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. Dr. Schaeffer completed rigorous medical training, including an internship at the University of Pennsylvania (1992) and a residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Pennsylvania (1994), specializing in the comprehensive medical care of women throughout their lives.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Andrea Schaeffer is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on proactive strategies to protect and enhance your long-term health.

By working together, you and Dr. Andrea Schaeffer can create a clear, actionable plan to address your unique risk factors and health goals.

A proactive approach to health involves understanding and managing potential risks. Dr. Andrea Schaeffer provides expert care for a range of conditions, focusing on early detection and effective management to support your long-term wellness. Common areas of focus include:

• Miscarriages: While some miscarriages are unavoidable, proactive healthcare, including regular checkups and addressing underlying health issues, can significantly reduce the risk.
• Cervical Leukoplakia: Managing cervical leukoplakia involves routine monitoring and, in some cases, treatment to reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer, highlighting the importance of preventive health strategies.
• Noninflammatory Cervical Disorders: Regular check-ups with your OB/GYN are crucial for early detection of non-inflammatory cervical disorders, allowing for timely intervention and preventing potential complications.
• Menstrual Disorders: Irregular or painful periods can signal underlying health issues, so early detection through regular checkups with your OB/GYN helps prevent complications and ensures timely treatment.
• Breast Cancer: Understanding your family history and risk factors for breast cancer empowers you to make informed decisions about preventative measures and screenings.
• Cervix Carcinoma: Managing cervical cancer risk involves consistent preventative healthcare, including routine checkups and vaccination against HPV, the primary cause.
• Pregestational Diabetes Mellitus: Taking steps to control your blood sugar before and during pregnancy is key to preventing complications from pre-existing diabetes, safeguarding your health and that of your developing baby.
• Gestational Diabetes: Regular checkups and blood sugar monitoring during pregnancy can identify gestational diabetes early, allowing for timely intervention and reducing long-term health problems.
• Excessive Menstrual Bleeding: Managing excessive menstrual bleeding is crucial for preventing anemia and maintaining overall health and well-being.
• Uterine Cancer: Managing conditions like obesity and diabetes, known risk factors, can lower your chances of developing uterine cancer, illustrating the importance of preventive lifestyle choices.
• Hypertension: Hypertension is a risk factor for many health issues, so making healthy lifestyle choices and monitoring your blood pressure helps lower your chances of developing them.
• Uterine Carcinoma: Uterine carcinoma, or uterine cancer, is a serious condition, but early detection through regular check-ups and screenings significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes only. The best way to understand your personal health and create a prevention plan is to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Taking proactive steps is central to long-term health. Dr. Andrea Schaeffer offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Birth Control: Prevent unwanted pregnancies and experience better menstrual health through a personalized discussion about available birth control methods.
• Colpopexy: Colpopexy is a surgical procedure that helps correct a condition called pelvic organ prolapse, improving your quality of life and preventing further complications.
• Endometrial Ablation: Taking a proactive step towards better uterine health, endometrial ablation helps alleviate bothersome symptoms associated with heavy periods, such as fatigue and anemia.
• Hysterectomy: A hysterectomy may be recommended to prevent or treat various uterine cancers, helping women proactively manage their reproductive health and long-term wellness.
• Hysteroscopy: To help maintain your reproductive well-being, a hysteroscopy allows for the detection of uterine abnormalities, often allowing for early intervention and preventing more invasive procedures later on.
• Incontinence Sling Procedure: For women experiencing urinary leakage, an incontinence sling procedure offers a surgical solution to strengthen pelvic floor muscles and reduce or eliminate incontinence.
• Intrauterine Device (IUD) Placement: Empower yourself with an IUD; this simple procedure offers a highly effective and long-lasting method of birth control, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your life.
• Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: A laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove the uterus, often chosen to proactively manage severe uterine fibroids or endometriosis.
• Laparoscopic Oophorectomy: A laparoscopic oophorectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove one or both ovaries, sometimes proactively chosen to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer in high-risk individuals.
• Obstetric Ultrasound: By getting regular obstetric ultrasounds, you can actively participate in your baby's healthcare journey, helping to identify potential issues early and improve the chances of a healthy outcome.
• Oophorectomy: For women at increased risk of ovarian cancer or facing certain health conditions, an oophorectomy is a proactive surgical procedure that involves removing one or both ovaries.
• Vaginal Prolapse Surgery: Vaginal prolapse surgery is a proactive step to restore pelvic organ support and improve bladder and bowel control, enhancing your overall quality of life.

Service availability can change, and not all services listed may be appropriate for every patient. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services and to create your personalized screening plan, please schedule a consultation.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Obstetrics and Gynecology in Florida.

Dr. Andrea Schaeffer is dedicated to partnering with women and their families to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how a proactive approach can make a tangible difference in a Woman's life:

• By proactively addressing potential risk factors and maintaining regular checkups, a couple experienced significant peace of mind regarding future pregnancies, knowing their health plan was reducing potential risks.
• By diligently following the recommended screening schedule, a patient proactively managed cervical leukoplakia, significantly reducing the risk of potential complications and gaining peace of mind regarding her reproductive health.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. She will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

Here are answers to some common questions about proactive Obstetrics and Gynecology care with Dr. Andrea Schaeffer:

What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Andrea Schaeffer?

Your first visit with Dr. Schaeffer is a collaborative partnership-building session. We will review your detailed health history, discuss your health goals and concerns, and create a personalized plan for future screenings. This is a safe and confidential space to ask any questions you may have.

How often do I need a Pap smear and HPV test?

Guidelines for Pap smears and HPV tests vary depending on age and risk factors. The goal is early detection of potential cervical changes, and Dr. Schaeffer follows the latest evidence-based recommendations. She will create a personalized schedule for you.

What kind of topics should I bring up during my annual wellness exam?

During your annual wellness exam, please feel free to discuss any concerns you have, including your menstrual cycle, sexual health, contraceptive needs, future pregnancy plans, or any changes in your breast or pelvic health. We encourage open communication and proactive discussion of any topic, no matter how personal.

What are uterine fibroids and should I be concerned?

Uterine fibroids are very common, non-cancerous growths in the uterus. They are often asymptomatic, but can sometimes cause heavy bleeding or pain. Dr. Schaeffer can help monitor them and discuss treatment options if they become problematic.

What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that can cause irregular periods, acne, and excess hair growth, and may impact fertility. Dr. Schaeffer can help with symptom management and long-term health planning.

Are painful periods normal?

While mild cramping can be normal, severe, debilitating pain is not. It could be a sign of an underlying condition like endometriosis or fibroids. Please schedule a consultation with Dr. Andrea Schaeffer so you don't have to suffer in silence.

I have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer. What does that mean for me?

A family history of breast or ovarian cancer is important. It may mean you need to start screenings earlier or consider genetic testing, such as for BRCA genes. Dr. Schaeffer can help assess your risk and create a proactive, personalized surveillance plan.

How do I perform a breast self-exam, and how often should I do it?

The goal of a breast self-exam is to become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel. Performing a self-exam monthly can help you notice any changes, such as new lumps or skin changes. It's important to remember that this is a supplement to regular clinical exams and mammograms by Dr. Andrea Schaeffer.

HCA Florida West Women's Health - 7th Floor
8333 N Davis Hwy # 7
Pensacola FL 32514
Phone: (863) 588-4193

Dr. Andrea Schaeffer, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1386389195

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile, provided by weprevent.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with preventive health partners. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Obstetrics and Gynecology like Dr. Andrea Schaeffer are skilled in helping patients create proactive health plans. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your obstetrics and gynecology about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.