Dr. Jacqueline Fernandes, MD

Dr. Jacqueline Fernandes, MD is an Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist practicing at her Clearwater, FL clinic, 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, and is currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Call (727) 461-2757 to schedule.

With over 20 years of dedicated experience in Obstetrics and Gynecology care, Dr. Fernandes brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. She earned her medical degree from Howard University College Of Medicine in 2002 and completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Lehigh Valley Health Network in 2006, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of all ages of women. She is Board Certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology. Dr. Fernandes is a member of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, a fellow of American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and member of CMDA and AAGL. A worldwide traveler, she has served as a surgeon, lecturer, and resident teacher on numerous medical/surgical mission trips to Ecuador, Mongolia, Kenya, and Ethiopia. Dr. Fernandes also offers consultations in Portuguese. As a commissioned officer in the United States Air Force since 1998, she has practiced at bases in Florida, Virginia, and Japan and has held medical director positions. She accepts most insurances and is eager to partner with you in your health journey.

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

• Cervical Cancer: Early detection of cervical cancer is key to successful treatment and improved survival rates, making regular Pap tests and HPV vaccination a critical part of your preventive healthcare routine.
• Excessive Menstrual Bleeding: Prolonged or unusually heavy periods can disrupt your daily life; preventive care helps identify the cause and find effective management strategies.
• Pregnancy Hemorrhoids: Preventing pregnancy hemorrhoids involves understanding risk factors like constipation and managing them proactively to avoid discomfort and complications during and after pregnancy.
• Encounters for Normal Pregnancies: Preventative care during a healthy pregnancy helps ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy and birth by proactively addressing potential risks.
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): Early detection and treatment of STDs are crucial for preventing complications like pelvic inflammatory disease and ectopic pregnancy.
• Asymptomatic Post-Menopausal Status: Even without symptoms, post-menopausal women should schedule regular visits for preventive screenings to catch problems early and maintain their well-being.
• Vaginitis or Vaginosis: Vaginal infections like vaginitis and vaginosis highlight the significance of preventive care; early identification and treatment can help avoid potential long-term health issues and discomfort.
• Miscarriages: Early detection of potential complications during pregnancy, through regular monitoring and testing, is crucial for minimizing the chances of miscarriage.
• Adenomyosis: Adenomyosis, a condition where tissue that normally lines the uterus grows into the muscle layer, can be managed effectively with early diagnosis and treatment, preventing severe pain and improving quality of life, emphasizing the need for proactive healthcare.
• Genital Herpes: Understanding the risks associated with genital herpes and taking proactive steps like safe sex practices and regular STI testing are essential to reduce your chances of contracting this infection.
• Vaginal Prolapse: Regular pelvic exams are crucial for early detection of vaginal prolapse, allowing for timely intervention and potentially preventing the need for more invasive treatments later.
• Tubo-Ovarian Abscess: Preventing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) through safe sex practices and prompt treatment of infections significantly reduces your risk of developing a tubo-ovarian abscess, a painful and potentially dangerous complication.

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

• Fetal Ultrasound: Fetal ultrasounds provide valuable insights into your baby's health, allowing for early diagnosis of birth defects and potential complications, improving pregnancy outcomes.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections Screening: Ensure your sexual health is optimal by undergoing STI testing; it's a simple yet powerful way to safeguard your overall health.
• Gonorrhea Screening: Ensure your sexual health is in top shape with a gonorrhea screening. This test helps detect the presence of this infection and facilitates early treatment.
• Hepatitis B Virus Screening: Hepatitis B screening is a straightforward blood test that helps diagnose infection, allowing for early treatment to minimize the risk of chronic liver disease.
• Pregnancy Test: Take charge of your reproductive health by using a pregnancy test to confirm or rule out pregnancy early.
• Destruction or Excision of Lesion of Cervix (incl. LEEP): A preventative measure, this procedure targets and removes areas of abnormal cells on your cervix to avoid future health complications.
• Menopause Evaluation and Treatment: Invest in your long-term health by seeking a menopause evaluation to address hormonal imbalances and improve your quality of life.
• Breast Cancer Screening: Take a proactive step in protecting your health by scheduling regular breast cancer screenings to catch potential problems early.
• Ovarian Cancer Screening: Protecting your future: Ovarian cancer screening helps detect this often-silent disease early, when treatment is most effective.
• Salpingectomy: Protecting your future health, a salpingectomy involves the removal of your fallopian tubes, helping prevent ovarian cancer and improving your overall well-being.
• Nuchal Translucency Screening: To help ensure a healthy pregnancy, nuchal translucency screening uses ultrasound to assess your baby's risk for conditions like Down syndrome.
• C-Section: Planning for a potential C-section empowers you to discuss potential risks and benefits with your OB/GYN, ensuring a safer birthing experience.

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. Jacqueline Fernandes 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 diligently adhering to a recommended proactive health plan, including regular Pap tests and HPV vaccination, a patient ensured early detection, significantly reducing the risk of cervical cancer and fostering peace of mind.
• By proactively discussing her menstrual cycle with a healthcare provider, a woman identified potential issues early and developed a personalized plan to effectively manage excessive bleeding, restoring her comfort and well-being.

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. Jacqueline Fernandes:

What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Jacqueline Fernandes?

Your first visit with Dr. Fernandes is 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. Fernandes follows the latest evidence-based recommendations and will create a personalized screening 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, be open and proactive about discussing your menstrual cycle, sexual health concerns, contraceptive needs, future pregnancy plans, and any changes in breast or pelvic health. No question is off-limits; we are here to support your overall well-being.

What's the difference between perimenopause and menopause?

Perimenopause is the transitional period leading up to menopause, often characterized by irregular periods and initial symptoms. Menopause is the point when periods have stopped for 12 consecutive months. Dr. Fernandes provides guidance through both stages.

What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that can cause irregular periods, acne, and excess hair growth, and may impact fertility. Dr. Fernandes can help with symptom management and long-term health planning.

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 a self-exam monthly to recognize any changes like new lumps or skin changes. It's a supplement to, not a replacement for, clinical exams by Dr. Fernandes and mammograms.

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. Jacqueline Fernandes so you don't have to suffer in silence.

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. Fernandes can offer effective solutions, including pelvic floor therapy and various procedures.

508 Jeffords St Ste C
Clearwater FL 33756
Phone: (727) 461-2757

Dr. Jacqueline Fernandes, 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): 1629038880

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. Jacqueline Fernandes 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.