Dr. Howard Schechter, MD

Dr. Howard Schechter, MD is an Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive care at his clinic in Tampa, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), prioritizing the well-being of all his patients. 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 compassionate and evidence-based care. Please call (813) 890-7884 to confirm if he is currently accepting new patients.

Dr. Howard Schechter, MD is an obstetrician gynecologist in Tampa, FL with over 45 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from New York University in 1979 and is Board Certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology. With over 45 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. His approach to care is collaborative and evidence-based, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to actively participate in their long-term health management. Dr. Schechter provides consultations primarily in English.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Howard Schechter 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. Howard Schechter 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. Howard Schechter 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 Diseases: Managing ovarian diseases effectively through early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can prevent infertility and other long-term health problems.
• Rectovaginal Fistula: A rectovaginal fistula, an abnormal connection between the rectum and vagina, highlights the importance of prompt medical attention if you experience unusual vaginal discharge or leakage; early intervention often minimizes long-term health issues.
• Breast Cancer: Managing breast cancer effectively through early diagnosis and appropriate treatment prevents the spread of the disease and improves long-term health.
• Obesity Complicating Childbirth: By prioritizing weight management, women can reduce their chances of experiencing difficult or risky deliveries associated with obesity, promoting a healthier pregnancy journey.
• Symptomatic Menopause: Experiencing symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, or mood changes during perimenopause or menopause? Addressing these symptoms early can help prevent long-term health issues and improve your overall well-being.
• Congenital Anomalies of Breast: Addressing congenital breast issues early on through medical consultation can minimize the risk of long-term health problems.
• Vesicovaginal Fistula: Understanding your risk factors, such as previous surgeries or childbirth complications, allows for proactive measures to prevent the development of a vesicovaginal fistula, preserving bladder and vaginal health.

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

• Bladder Repair Surgery: Bladder repair surgery proactively addresses urinary incontinence, helping you regain control and improve your quality of life.
• Colpopexy: As a proactive step in managing pelvic organ prolapse, colpopexy strengthens the supporting tissues to alleviate discomfort and improve bladder or bowel function.
• Advanced Fetal Ultrasound: Empower yourself with knowledge about your baby's development by opting for an advanced fetal ultrasound; this scan can detect a range of conditions, enabling early intervention.
• Hymenectomy: A hymenectomy is a surgical option to address conditions involving the hymen that may interfere with menstruation, sexual health, or overall comfort.
• In-Office Sterilization: In-office sterilization procedures provide a permanent solution for those who do not wish to have children, ensuring long-term reproductive health.
• Lymph Node Dissection for Endometrial Cancer (Uterine Cancer): To help ensure the best possible prognosis, a lymph node dissection helps doctors check for the presence of endometrial cancer in nearby lymph nodes during surgery.
• Vaginal Cuff Revision: A vaginal cuff revision is a proactive step to correct any structural issues left after a hysterectomy, improving vaginal health and reducing the risk of infections or prolapse.

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. Howard Schechter 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 scheduling regular checkups and genetic counseling, a patient significantly lowered her risk of ovarian diseases, gaining peace of mind and empowering her to make informed decisions about her health.
• By recognizing and addressing unusual vaginal discharge early, a patient proactively managed potential complications, gaining peace of mind and avoiding long-term health issues.

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. Howard Schechter:

What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Howard Schechter?

Your first visit with Dr. Schechter 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. Schechter follows the latest evidence-based recommendations and will create a personalized screening schedule for you, focusing on early detection of 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 regarding your menstrual cycle, sexual health, contraception, future pregnancy plans, or any changes in your breast or pelvic health. We encourage open communication and proactive discussion; no topic is off-limits. Your health is important to us, and we are here to support you.

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. Schechter can help you discuss lifestyle factors, start folic acid, review current medications, and consider genetic carrier screening. Dr. Schechter can be a partner in optimizing your health for a future pregnancy.

What is endometriosis and how is it diagnosed?

Endometriosis is a condition where uterine-like tissue grows outside the uterus, often causing pelvic pain and potentially impacting fertility. Diagnosis typically involves a detailed history and physical exam, and may be confirmed with minimally invasive surgical procedures. Dr. Schechter is skilled in diagnosing and managing this complex condition.

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

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

Breast self-awareness, recognizing what's normal for your body, is the key. Monthly self-exams can help you notice any changes, like new lumps or skin changes. This is important, but it's not a substitute for regular clinical exams and mammograms with Dr. Schechter.

Does Dr. Howard Schechter manage high-risk pregnancies?

Dr. Schechter's practice manages high-risk pregnancies, including those due to advanced maternal age, multiple gestations, or pre-existing health conditions. We work closely with Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) specialists when necessary to provide comprehensive, coordinated care for the best possible outcomes.

9009 Corporate Lake Dr
Tampa FL 33634
Phone: (813) 890-7884

Dr. Howard Schechter, 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): 1114057213

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. Howard Schechter 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.