Dr. Carol Cox, MD

Dr. Carol Cox, MD is an Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist practicing at AdventHealth Medical Group Surgical Specialists at Tampa in Tampa, FL. She is dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive care, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing 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. Cox is not currently accepting new patients, but you can call (813) 978-8315 to inquire about waitlists or future openings.

With over 25 years of dedicated experience in Obstetrics and Gynecology care, Dr. Cox brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. She earned her medical degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine in 1997, completing an internship at the same institution. Subsequently, she completed her residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of South Florida College of Medicine, further specializing in the comprehensive medical care of women of all ages. Dr. Cox is board certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology and serves as Chair of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology for the Tampa Bay region, as well as an Assistant Professor in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of South Florida. Her approach prioritizes patient understanding and empowerment, fostering trust and open dialogue for optimal long-term health. Dr. Carol Cox provides consultations primarily in English.

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

• Ovarian Cancer: Regular checkups and screenings can help detect ovarian cancer early, when treatment is most effective, significantly improving your chances of a positive outcome.
• Uterine Carcinoma: Preventive measures like maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise may lower your risk of developing uterine cancer, contributing to your overall well-being.
• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: Regular monitoring for PCOS can help prevent the development of serious health problems such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease later in life.
• Uterine Fibroids: Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus that, while often harmless, can cause heavy bleeding and pain, highlighting the importance of regular checkups for early detection and management to prevent complications.
• Vaginal Prolapse: Preventing vaginal prolapse often involves maintaining strong pelvic floor muscles; proactive exercises and lifestyle choices can significantly reduce your risk.
• Pregnancy: Managing health conditions before and during pregnancy helps prevent complications and ensures a healthier outcome.
• Breech Position: Early identification of a breech presentation during pregnancy allows for interventions like external cephalic version (ECV) or planning for a Cesarean section, potentially preventing complications during delivery.
• Vaginal Yeast Infection: A vaginal yeast infection, or candidiasis, is a common fungal infection easily treated with early detection, preventing discomfort and potential complications.
• Menopause: Managing menopause effectively through lifestyle changes and, when needed, hormone therapy, can significantly reduce your risk of long-term health problems.
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): Protecting yourself from STDs through safe sex practices and regular screenings can safeguard your reproductive health.
• Maternal Anemia: Preventing complications during pregnancy requires early detection and management of anemia, as it can lead to premature birth and low birth weight if left untreated.
• Postpartum Depression: Managing postpartum depression effectively prevents potential negative impacts on your physical and emotional health, helping you enjoy the joys of motherhood.

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

• Vulvectomy: Taking proactive steps for your health, a vulvectomy may be recommended to remove cancerous or precancerous tissue from the vulva, potentially saving your life.
• Endocervical Curettage: An endocervical curettage is a simple procedure that helps your doctor collect cells from your cervix to check for abnormalities and potentially prevent more serious conditions.
• Pregnancy Ultrasound: A pregnancy ultrasound is a safe and painless way to monitor your baby's growth and development, helping to identify potential issues early on.
• Oophorectomy: To prevent ovarian cancer or manage certain medical conditions, an oophorectomy involves the surgical removal of one or both ovaries, a proactive step for some women's health journeys.
• C-Section: A C-section can be a planned or emergency procedure, and discussing your options with your doctor helps prepare you for different birth scenarios.
• Birth Control: Prevent unwanted pregnancies and experience better menstrual health through a personalized discussion about available birth control methods.
• Salpingectomy: For women seeking to minimize their cancer risk, a salpingectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the fallopian tubes, a significant preventative step in reducing the likelihood of ovarian cancer.
• Intrauterine Device (IUD) Placement: Proactively manage your family planning by choosing IUD placement, a convenient and reliable form of contraception that can last for years.
• Hysterectomy: For women experiencing debilitating symptoms from uterine conditions, a hysterectomy offers potential relief and improved overall well-being, often improving quality of life.
• Destruction or Excision of Vaginal Lesions: Protecting your vaginal health starts with removing abnormal tissue that could potentially lead to more serious conditions.
• Colposcopy: Colposcopy is a simple procedure that uses a special magnifying tool to examine your cervix for any abnormal cells that could lead to cervical cancer.
• Obstetric Ultrasound: Protecting your baby's well-being starts with an obstetric ultrasound; this simple scan helps detect birth defects, multiple pregnancies, or placental issues early on.

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. Carol Cox 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 prioritizing regular checkups and screenings, a woman proactively managed her ovarian cancer risk, gaining peace of mind and significantly improving her chances of a positive outcome.
• By focusing on a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, a patient significantly reduced their risk of uterine carcinoma, gaining peace of mind and a proactive approach to overall 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. Carol Cox:

What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Carol Cox?

Your first visit with Dr. Cox is a collaborative partnership-building session. We'll 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. The goal is early detection of any cervical changes that could lead to cancer. Dr. Cox follows the latest evidence-based screening recommendations and will create a personalized schedule for you.

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

During your annual wellness visit, feel free to discuss any concerns regarding your menstrual cycle, sexual health, contraceptive needs, future pregnancy plans, or changes in breast or pelvic health. We encourage open communication and proactive discussion about your overall well-being. No question is off-limits.

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

Breast self-awareness is key; getting to know what's normal for your breasts. Performing a self-exam monthly can help you notice any changes, like new lumps or skin changes. It's important to remember this is a supplement to clinical exams and mammograms performed by Dr. Cox.

What's the difference between perimenopause and menopause?

Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause, often with irregular periods and early symptoms. Menopause is when periods stop for 12 consecutive months. Dr. Cox provides support and guidance through both stages.

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. Cox can help you navigate this transition and maintain your quality of life.

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. Cox can help assess your risk and create a proactive, personalized surveillance plan.

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. Cox can recommend appropriate tests based on your individual situation.

AdventHealth Medical Group Surgical Specialists at Tampa
3000 Medical Park Dr Ste 140
Tampa FL 33613
Phone: (813) 978-8315

Dr. Carol Cox, 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): 1023021789

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. Carol Cox 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.