Dr. Barbra Bell, MD

Dr. Barbra Bell, MD is an Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist practicing at her clinic in Punta Gorda, FL. As a trusted partner in preventive health featured on weprevent.org, she is dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive care. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). 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. Dr. Barbra Bell is not currently accepting new patients, but patients can call (941) 875-4577 to inquire about waitlists or future openings.

Dr. Barbra Bell, MD is an obstetrician gynecologist in Punta Gorda, FL with over 30 years of experience in the medical field. With this wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care, she brings a dedicated approach to her patients and their families. She earned her medical degree from University Of Maryland At Baltimore, Professional Schools in 1994, and completed an internship at University Of Maryland Medical Center, gaining crucial foundational clinical experience. Dr. Bell is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. She is committed to providing the best possible care. She provides consultations primarily in English.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Barbra Bell 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. Barbra Bell 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. Barbra Bell 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:

• Vaginal Prolapse: Vaginal prolapse is a condition where the pelvic organs, such as the uterus or bladder, drop down into the vagina, and early detection through regular check-ups can help prevent further complications and discomfort.
• Labia Minora Cancer: Understanding your risk factors and participating in regular preventive health screenings can significantly reduce the impact of labia minora cancer, if detected, improving chances for successful treatment.
• Menstrual Disorders: Regular visits with your OB/GYN are key to identifying and managing menstrual disorders, reducing your risk of developing more complex health concerns down the line.
• Urinary-Genital Tract Fistula, Female: Early detection of risk factors, such as prolonged labor or pelvic surgery, can help prevent the development of a urinary-genital tract fistula, a serious condition causing leakage of urine or stool.
• Gynecologic Cancer: Managing gynecologic cancers effectively through timely intervention helps prevent the spread of the disease and minimizes long-term health complications.
• Interstitial Cystitis: Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic bladder condition that causes pelvic pain and urinary urgency, and early diagnosis through regular check-ups with your OB/GYN can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
• Pelvic Disorders: Early diagnosis and treatment of pelvic disorders are crucial for preserving your reproductive health and overall well-being.

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. Barbra Bell offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Implanon® Placement: Simplify your birth control routine and empower your reproductive health choices with Implanon placement.
• Destruction or Excision of Lesion of Cervix (incl. LEEP): This procedure removes abnormal cervical tissue to prevent the development of cervical cancer.
• Endocervical Curettage: Taking a proactive step towards better health, an endocervical curettage involves collecting a sample of cells from your cervix to screen for precancerous or cancerous changes.
• Nexplanon® Etonogestrel Implant: Nexplanon is a small implant that provides effective, long-acting birth control, empowering you to proactively manage your reproductive health.
• Mirena® Intrauterine Device: Protect against unplanned pregnancies and experience potentially lighter periods by incorporating the Mirena IUD into your proactive women's health plan.
• Rectovaginal Repair: As a proactive step in managing pelvic organ prolapse, rectovaginal repair helps restore anatomical support and function, enhancing overall health.
• Laparoscopy: Take a proactive step in safeguarding your reproductive health with laparoscopy—a procedure utilizing a small incision to detect and treat conditions affecting your pelvic organs.

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. Barbra Bell 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 scheduling regular check-ups and discussing any concerns, a patient proactively managed potential vaginal prolapse risks, maintaining comfort and peace of mind.
• By understanding her risk factors and participating in regular screenings, a woman proactively managed her health, significantly reducing the potential impact of labia minora cancer and promoting peace of mind.

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. Barbra Bell:

What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Barbra Bell?

Your first visit with Dr. Bell will be 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 based on age and risk factors. Dr. Barbra Bell follows the latest evidence-based recommendations and will create a personalized screening schedule for you. Early detection of potential cervical changes is key, and she will discuss this with you in detail.

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

During your annual wellness exam, be open and proactive about discussing your menstrual cycle, sexual health, contraceptive needs, future pregnancy plans, and any changes in breast or pelvic health. No question is off-limits; we're here to support your well-being.

What's the difference between perimenopause and menopause?

Perimenopause is the transitional period before menopause, often with irregular periods and early symptoms. Menopause is the point when periods stop for 12 consecutive months. Dr. Bell provides guidance through both stages.

I'm concerned about STIs. What screenings are available?

We understand your concern about STIs. Confidential screenings are available for chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, and syphilis. Dr. Bell can recommend the appropriate tests based on your individual situation.

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

The goal of a breast self-exam is breast self-awareness—knowing what's normal for your body. Perform it monthly to recognize any changes, such as new lumps or skin changes. It's a supplement to, not a replacement for, clinical exams by Dr. Barbra Bell and mammograms.

I'm experiencing leakage of urine when I cough or exercise. Is this normal?

Many women experience urine leakage when coughing or exercising, particularly after childbirth. This is a common issue called stress incontinence, and it's treatable. Dr. Bell can offer various effective solutions, from pelvic floor therapy to simple procedures.

What are the common symptoms of menopause I should be aware of?

Common menopause symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes. These are normal but treatable, and Dr. Bell can help you navigate this transition and maintain your quality of life.

317 Brasilia St
Punta Gorda FL 33983
Phone: (941) 875-4577

Dr. Barbra Bell, 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): 1083975692

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. Barbra Bell 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.