Dr. Dean Altenhofen Sr, MD

Dr. Dean Altenhofen Sr, MD is an Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist practicing at his clinic in Pensacola, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), 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. He serves all ages of women, from adolescence through menopause and beyond, and is committed to providing exceptional care in a supportive, collaborative environment. To confirm if Dr. Dean Sr is currently accepting new patients, please call (850) 475-0902.

Dr. Dean Altenhofen Sr, MD is an obstetrician gynecologist in Pensacola, FL with over 40 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from Medical University Of South Carolina in 1984 and is affiliated with medical facilities such as Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola and HCA Florida West Hospital. With over 40 years of dedicated experience in Obstetrics and Gynecology care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine and creating a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. Dr. Dean Sr provides consultations primarily in English and is accepting telehealth appointments.

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

• Amniotic Fluid Embolism: Amniotic fluid embolism is a rare but serious complication of pregnancy where amniotic fluid enters the mother's bloodstream, potentially causing life-threatening complications; early recognition and prompt medical care are crucial for improving outcomes.
• HPV (Human Papillomavirus): Regular Pap smears and HPV tests are crucial for early detection of HPV infections, enabling timely treatment and reducing the risk of serious complications like cervical cancer.
• Trichomoniasis: Trichomoniasis is a preventable STI; practicing safe sex and undergoing regular screenings can help you avoid this infection and its potential consequences.
• Preeclampsia: Preeclampsia is a dangerous pregnancy complication, best prevented through regular checkups and careful monitoring of blood pressure to catch it early and avoid serious problems for you and your baby.
• Ectopic Pregnancy: An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, often causing severe complications if not detected and treated early, highlighting the importance of regular prenatal care.
• High Risk Pregnancy: Careful management of a high-risk pregnancy through regular check-ups and proactive interventions significantly reduces the likelihood of premature birth, low birth weight, and other adverse outcomes.
• 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.
• Ovarian Cysts: Many ovarian cysts are harmless, but understanding your risk factors and having regular pelvic exams can help prevent serious issues from developing.
• Breast Lump: Taking proactive steps, like performing monthly breast self-exams and getting mammograms as recommended by your doctor, is essential for early detection of breast lumps, allowing for prompt intervention and better health outcomes.
• Uterine Cancer: Preventative care, including discussions with your OB/GYN about your individual risk factors, helps ensure timely detection and effective management of uterine cancer, preserving your health and well-being.
• Blood Disorders in Pregnancy: Preventing complications during pregnancy involves proactively addressing blood disorders through regular monitoring and appropriate treatment.
• Pregestational Diabetes Mellitus: Having diabetes before getting pregnant increases risks for both you and your baby, so getting checked and managing your blood sugar is crucial for a healthy pregnancy.

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

• Vaginosis Screening: Don't wait for symptoms – proactive vaginosis screening helps identify and address bacterial imbalances in your vagina, keeping you feeling your best.
• Pregnancy Ultrasound: Ensure a healthy pregnancy journey by getting regular ultrasounds; these scans help identify potential problems early on, allowing for timely medical intervention.
• 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.
• Hysterectomy: In cases of severe uterine prolapse or other pelvic organ prolapse conditions, a hysterectomy can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan to restore pelvic support and alleviate symptoms.
• Salpingectomy: As a proactive measure for long-term health, a salpingectomy is the surgical removal of the fallopian tubes, which can substantially reduce the risk of certain cancers.
• Excision of Cervix: Taking a proactive step towards cervical health, excision of the cervix helps remove abnormal cervical tissue that could potentially develop into cancer, safeguarding your future well-being.
• Infertility Evaluation: Proactively assess your fertility with an evaluation to uncover underlying problems that might be hindering your ability to conceive.
• Breast Cancer Screening: Protecting your future health starts now: mammograms and other breast cancer screenings are crucial for early diagnosis and treatment.
• Syphilis Screening: A syphilis screening is a simple test that helps detect this sexually transmitted infection early, allowing for prompt treatment and preventing serious long-term health problems.
• Tubal Ligation: Tubal ligation is a permanent birth control procedure that proactively prevents future pregnancies.
• Destruction or Excision of Lesion of Cervix (incl. LEEP): Taking a proactive step in your health, this treatment eliminates precancerous cells found on your cervix, helping to prevent cancer.
• Mammography: Invest in your health by getting a mammogram, an important screening test that can help detect breast cancer early and save your 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. Dean Sr 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:

• Knowing the risk factors for amniotic fluid embolism and proactively discussing them with her care team, a patient gained valuable peace of mind, allowing her to focus on a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
• By diligently following a proactive screening plan, a patient ensured early detection of HPV, significantly reducing the risk of potential complications 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. He 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. Dean Sr:

What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Dean Sr?

Your first visit with Dr. Dean Sr. 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, but the goal is early detection of potential cervical changes. Dr. Dean Sr. follows the latest evidence-based 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 exam with Dr. Dean Sr., feel free to discuss any concerns about your menstrual cycle, sexual health, contraception, future pregnancy plans, or changes in your breast or pelvic health. We encourage open communication and proactive discussion of any topic. No question is off-limits.

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. Dean Sr. so you don't have to suffer in silence.

When should I be concerned about an ovarian cyst?

Most ovarian cysts are benign and resolve on their own. However, if you experience severe, persistent pain, bloating, or pressure, please contact us. Dr. Dean Sr. uses ultrasound to evaluate cysts and determine the appropriate course of action.

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. Dean Sr. can help monitor them and discuss treatment options if they become problematic.

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

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

I'm thinking about getting pregnant. What should I do to prepare?

Preparing for pregnancy is an excellent proactive step. A preconception counseling visit with Dr. Dean Sr. is valuable to discuss lifestyle factors, starting folic acid, reviewing medications, and considering genetic carrier screening. Dr. Dean Sr. can be a partner in optimizing your health for a future pregnancy.

6110 N Davis Hwy
Pensacola FL 32504
Phone: (850) 475-0902

Dr. Dean Altenhofen Sr, 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): 1578540027

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. Dean Sr 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.