Dr. Karen Harris, MD

Dr. Karen Harris, MD is an Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist practicing at Women's Group of North Florida in Gainesville, FL. She is deeply committed 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, and is currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Please call (352) 423-7819 to schedule.

With over 35 years of dedicated experience in Obstetrics and Gynecology care, Dr. Harris brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. She earned her medical degree from the University of Florida College of Medicine in 1985 and completed an internship at Johns Hopkins Hospital, followed by residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Johns Hopkins Hospital. She is Board Certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology. Dr. Harris is a native Floridian, and a graduate of Vassar College and the University of Florida College of Medicine. She also holds a Master's in Public Health Administration from the University of Florida. Prior to her current role as Program Director for the residency practice at the Women's Group of North Florida, she held leadership positions at Comprehensive Women's Health for 29 years. Dr. Harris is an active member of numerous professional organizations, including ACOG, and is passionate about reproductive and social justice issues. She provides consultations primarily in English.

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

• Uterine Prolapse: Early detection of uterine prolapse through regular OB/GYN checkups is crucial to prevent discomfort and more serious complications later on.
• Acute Vaginitis: Catching acute vaginitis early through self-awareness and regular OB/GYN visits is crucial for preventing discomfort and potential spread of infection.
• Premenstrual Syndrome: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common condition causing physical and emotional symptoms before your period, and understanding your symptoms helps manage them effectively.
• Bone Disorders: Regular bone density screenings can detect weakening bones early, allowing for timely intervention and reducing your risk of fractures and related complications.
• Postpartum Depression: Taking steps to address postpartum depression early on can safeguard your mental health and help you bond effectively with your baby, improving overall family wellness.
• Leiomyoma: Early detection of leiomyomas through routine pelvic exams is crucial for managing symptoms and preventing the need for more extensive treatments later on.
• Pregestational Diabetes Mellitus: If you have diabetes before pregnancy, proactive management helps reduce the chance of birth defects and other serious health issues for your baby.
• Chlamydia Infections: Preventive care includes regular STI testing, which is essential for catching and treating chlamydia before it causes lasting damage to your reproductive system.
• Dysmenorrhea: Addressing dysmenorrhea early can prevent it from impacting your daily life, relationships, and overall health; proactive healthcare and lifestyle adjustments are key to managing this common condition.
• Endometriosis: Because endometriosis can impact fertility, seeking medical attention to manage symptoms and potential risk factors can improve your chances of conceiving in the future.
• Abnormal Menstruation: Changes in your menstrual cycle, like heavier or lighter bleeding, could signal an underlying health issue, so talking to your doctor ensures early detection and prevents potential complications.
• Pap Smear Abnormalities: Abnormal Pap smear results can signal underlying issues that need attention; prompt diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing progression to more severe conditions.

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

• STD Screening: Regular STD screenings are a proactive step in protecting your sexual health by identifying and treating infections early, preventing long-term health problems.
• Gonorrhea Screening: A gonorrhea screening is a simple test that helps detect this sexually transmitted infection early, allowing for prompt treatment to prevent complications.
• 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.
• Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: As a proactive measure to address persistent uterine problems, a laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally invasive procedure to remove the uterus, promoting long-term well-being.
• Excision of Cervix: Excision of the cervix is a surgical procedure that removes a portion of the cervix, often to prevent or treat precancerous or cancerous cells detected during a Pap smear or colposcopy.
• Gynecologic Cancer Screening: Take control of your health by scheduling routine gynecologic cancer screenings; these tests can find potentially life-threatening cancers in their earliest stages.
• Dilation and Curettage: To ensure your uterine health, a D&C allows for the removal of tissue for detailed analysis, enabling early detection and treatment of underlying issues.
• Fetal Cardiac Screening: Take a proactive step towards a healthy pregnancy by undergoing fetal cardiac screening; it helps detect heart defects that may require early intervention.
• Genetic Screening for Breast Cancer: Empower yourself with knowledge: genetic screening for breast cancer helps determine your inherited risk, guiding personalized strategies for prevention and early detection.
• Chlamydia Infection Screening: Protecting your reproductive health starts with a chlamydia screening, a quick test that helps identify this often asymptomatic infection and allows for timely treatment.
• C-Section: While aiming for a vaginal delivery, knowing about C-sections as a safe alternative ensures you're equipped to navigate unexpected challenges during labor.
• Myomectomy: Taking proactive steps for your uterine health, a myomectomy is a surgery that removes fibroids, reducing the risk of complications and improving your quality of 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. Karen Harris 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 scheduling regular checkups, a patient proactively identified potential uterine prolapse risk factors, empowering them to make informed decisions and maintain optimal reproductive health. This proactive approach ensured a comfortable and confident future.
• By recognizing the early signs and scheduling regular checkups, a patient proactively managed potential discomfort and prevented any further complications from acute vaginitis. This proactive approach ensured a swift resolution and restored her confidence in her reproductive 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. Karen Harris:

What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Karen Harris?

Your first visit with Dr. Harris 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. Harris 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, feel free to discuss any concerns, including your menstrual cycle, sexual health, contraceptive needs, future pregnancy plans, or changes in your breast or pelvic health. We encourage open communication and proactive discussion; no question is off-limits.

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

Thinking about getting pregnant is an excellent proactive step! A preconception counseling visit with Dr. Harris can help optimize your health by discussing lifestyle factors, starting folic acid, reviewing medications, and considering genetic carrier screening. Dr. Harris is happy to partner with you in optimizing your health for a future pregnancy.

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

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. Harris 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-exams are best used to develop breast self-awareness, recognizing what's normal for your body. Perform them monthly to notice any changes like lumps or skin changes. These exams are a supplement to clinical exams and mammograms performed by Dr. Harris.

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

Many women experience urine leakage when coughing or exercising, a common issue called stress incontinence, especially after childbirth. It's definitely not something you have to live with; Dr. Harris can offer various effective solutions, including pelvic floor therapy and simple procedures.

Women’s Group of North Florida
6440 W Newberry Rd Ste 508
Gainesville FL 32605
Phone: (352) 423-7819

Dr. Karen Harris, 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): 1013981406

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. Karen Harris 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.