Dr. Eric Edwards, MD

Dr. Eric Edwards, MD is an Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist practicing at AdventHealth Medical Group Obstetrics & Gynecology at Oakfield in Brandon, FL. He 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. He serves all ages of women, from adolescence through menopause and beyond, and is currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Call (813) 738-6686 to schedule.

Dr. Edwards, a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, brings over 30 years of dedicated experience to his practice. He comes from a family with a rich medical heritage, carrying on the legacy of his great-grandmother, a midwife. Dr. Edwards earned his medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine in 1991, completing an internship at University of Oklahoma College of Medicine and residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at St. Johns Mercy Medical Center, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine-Tulsa, and St. Johns Mercy Medical Center, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of women throughout their lives. He is Board Certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology. His commitment to patient well-being extends beyond his clinical expertise, as he prioritizes creating a comfortable and confident environment for each patient, taking the time to understand their individual needs and concerns to develop a holistic care plan. Dr. Edwards provides consultations primarily in English.

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

• Genitourinary Chlamydial Infection: Regular checkups and STI screenings help detect chlamydia early, preventing infertility and other long-term health issues.
• Pregnancy: Managing health conditions before and during pregnancy helps prevent complications and ensures a healthier outcome.
• Breast Lump: Preventive healthcare includes regular breast self-exams and mammograms, which are essential for early detection of breast lumps, enabling timely treatment and reducing the risk of serious health issues.
• Chronic Vaginitis: Chronic vaginitis, or persistent vaginal inflammation, can be prevented through proactive steps like maintaining good hygiene and recognizing early symptoms to avoid long-term complications.
• Ectopic Pregnancy: Understanding the signs and symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy, such as abdominal pain and irregular bleeding, allows for timely medical intervention, preventing more serious consequences.
• Vaginal Yeast Infection: Regular check-ups with your OB/GYN can help identify and treat vaginal yeast infections early, preventing discomfort and potential spread to other areas.
• Vaginal Cancer: Regular pelvic exams and Pap tests are crucial for early detection of vaginal cancer, significantly improving treatment outcomes and survival rates.
• Hyperemesis Gravidarum: Hyperemesis gravidarum is severe morning sickness that requires medical attention to prevent dehydration and nutritional deficiencies during pregnancy.
• Preeclampsia: Preeclampsia can cause serious complications for both mother and baby, but early detection and proactive management through regular prenatal care greatly lessen these risks.
• Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Protecting your long-term health includes understanding your menstrual cycle. Unusual bleeding patterns should be discussed with your doctor to identify and manage any potential problems.
• Acute Vaginitis: Regular gynecological exams are essential for early detection of acute vaginitis, allowing for timely treatment and reducing the risk of recurring infections.
• 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.

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

• 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.
• Pregnancy Ultrasound: Ensure a healthy pregnancy journey by getting regular ultrasounds; these scans help identify potential problems early on, allowing for timely medical intervention.
• First Trimester Screening: Take a proactive step towards a healthy pregnancy by scheduling first trimester screening; it helps detect potential chromosomal abnormalities in your developing baby early on.
• Nuchal Translucency Screening: By getting a nuchal translucency screening, you can gain valuable information about your baby's health and make informed decisions about your pregnancy.
• Genetic Screening for Breast Cancer: Genetic screening for breast cancer helps identify your risk of developing this disease, allowing for proactive steps like increased surveillance or preventative measures.
• Salpingo Oopherectomy: A salpingo-oophorectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the fallopian tubes and ovaries, sometimes proactively chosen to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.
• Laparoscopic Oophorectomy: To proactively manage certain health risks, a laparoscopic oophorectomy involves a small incision to remove ovaries, potentially preventing future ovarian cancer or managing existing conditions.
• Amniocentesis: As a proactive step in your pregnancy journey, amniocentesis helps identify potential genetic issues with your baby, enabling early planning and treatment if necessary.
• Vaginosis Screening: Don't wait for symptoms – proactive vaginosis screening helps identify and address bacterial imbalances in your vagina, keeping you feeling your best.
• 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.
• Birth Control: Proactively manage your menstrual cycle, reduce the risk of unplanned pregnancies, and improve overall reproductive health by choosing a suitable birth control method.
• Pregnancy Test: A pregnancy test is a simple, at-home screening tool that allows you to detect pregnancy and plan for your future.

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. Eric Edwards 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 STI screenings, a patient proactively detected and treated a chlamydial infection, avoiding potential long-term complications and maintaining reproductive health.
• By attending preconception appointments and discussing family history, a patient felt empowered to proactively address potential risks, ensuring a healthier pregnancy journey.

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. Eric Edwards:

What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Eric Edwards?

Your first visit with Dr. Edwards 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. Edwards follows the latest evidence-based recommendations and will create a personalized schedule for you to ensure early detection of any potential cervical changes.

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

During your annual wellness exam, feel free to discuss any concerns or questions about your menstrual cycle, sexual health, contraception, future pregnancy plans, or changes in your breast or pelvic health. We encourage open communication and proactive engagement in your health. No question is off-limits. We are here to support you.

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. Edwards 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 with coughing or exercise, especially after childbirth. This is a very common issue called stress incontinence, and it's treatable. Dr. Edwards can offer various effective solutions, from pelvic floor therapy to simple procedures.

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. Edwards 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 spontaneously. However, if you experience severe, persistent pain, bloating, or pressure, please contact Dr. Edwards' office. He will use tools like ultrasound to evaluate the cyst and determine the best course of action.

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 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, not a replacement for, clinical exams by Dr. Edwards and mammograms.

AdventHealth Medical Group Obstetrics & Gynecology at Oakfield
505 Oakfield Dr
Brandon FL 33511
Phone: (813) 738-6686

Dr. Eric Edwards, 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): 1285698530

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. Eric Edwards 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.