Dr. Lareesa Ferdinand, MD

Dr. Lareesa Ferdinand, MD is an Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive care at her Winter Haven, FL clinic. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), she is committed to partnering with you in creating a personalized wellness plan. 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 (866) 234-8534 to schedule.

Dr. Lareesa Ferdinand, MD is an obstetrician gynecologist in Winter Haven, FL, affiliated with AdventHealth Orlando and AdventHealth Altamonte Springs. She earned her medical degree from Louisiana State University Health Science Center School of Medicine, followed by an internship at University of Florida Health Sciences Center College of Medicine, building a strong foundation in clinical practice. Board Certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology, she approaches care with a commitment to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. She is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. Dr. Ferdinand provides consultations primarily in English.

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

• Chlamydia Infections: Regular checkups, including STI testing, can help detect and treat chlamydia early, preventing potential long-term reproductive health problems.
• Uterine Fibroids: Regular OB/GYN visits are crucial for early detection of uterine fibroids, allowing for timely intervention and reducing the risk of more invasive treatments later on.
• 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.
• Tubo-Ovarian Abscess: Managing underlying conditions and practicing good hygiene can help prevent infections that might progress to a tubo-ovarian abscess, emphasizing the role of preventive care in maintaining reproductive health.
• Ovarian Cancer: Understanding your family history and risk factors for ovarian cancer allows for proactive steps like increased screening frequency or preventative surgeries to minimize your risk.
• Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Experiencing irregular bleeding? Don't delay seeking medical attention; addressing abnormal uterine bleeding promptly can help prevent anemia and other potential health problems.
• Pelvic Abscess: Regular pelvic exams and prompt treatment of any infections can help prevent the formation of a pelvic abscess, safeguarding your reproductive health.
• Hyperemesis Gravidarum: If you experience extreme nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, seek medical advice to rule out hyperemesis gravidarum and ensure appropriate management.
• Mastodynia: Experiencing breast pain? Regular check-ups with your OB/GYN are crucial for identifying the cause of mastodynia and developing a plan to manage it, preventing unnecessary worry and potential complications.
• Acute Vaginitis: Acute vaginitis, or a sudden vaginal infection, can be prevented with good hygiene practices and early detection through regular checkups, avoiding serious complications.
• Fallopian Tube Disorders: Regular OB/GYN visits can help detect fallopian tube problems early, allowing for timely intervention and reducing the risk of serious complications like infertility or life-threatening ectopic pregnancies.
• Fallopian Tube Torsion: Understanding your risk factors for fallopian tube torsion, such as previous pelvic surgeries, can help you proactively discuss preventative strategies with your doctor.

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

• Vaginal Prolapse Surgery: Taking charge of your pelvic health, vaginal prolapse surgery offers a solution to address organ prolapse, relieving discomfort and improving symptoms.
• 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.
• Endocervical Curettage: An endocervical curettage is a simple procedure that helps your doctor collect cells from your cervix to check for abnormalities and potentially prevent more serious conditions.
• Menopause Evaluation and Treatment: Ensure your well-being during menopause with an assessment that identifies symptoms and offers solutions for a smoother transition.
• Bacteriuria Screening: A bacteriuria screening is a simple test to check for bacteria in your urine, helping detect urinary tract infections (UTIs) early before they cause serious problems.
• Colporrhaphy: Taking a proactive approach to pelvic health, colporrhaphy surgery helps restore the structural integrity of the vagina, preventing or managing prolapse.
• 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.
• Breast Cancer Screening: Regular breast cancer screenings help detect abnormalities early, increasing your chances of successful treatment.
• Obstetric Ultrasound: Protecting your baby's well-being starts with an obstetric ultrasound; this simple scan helps detect birth defects, multiple pregnancies, or placental issues early on.
• Infertility Evaluation: Don't wait to start your family; an infertility evaluation helps pinpoint problems and guide you towards effective treatments for a smoother journey to pregnancy.
• 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.
• Destruction or Excision of Lesion of Cervix (incl. LEEP): This helps detect and remove abnormal cervical cells identified during a Pap smear or HPV test, significantly reducing your cancer risk.

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. Lareesa Ferdinand 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 and STI testing, a patient proactively managed their risk of chlamydia, gaining peace of mind about their reproductive health. This proactive approach helped prevent potential long-term complications.
• By attending regular OB/GYN appointments, a patient proactively monitored her health, reducing the risk of uterine fibroid complications and gaining peace of mind. This proactive approach allowed her to focus on other important aspects of her life.

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. Lareesa Ferdinand:

What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Lareesa Ferdinand?

Your first visit with Dr. Ferdinand 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 potential cervical changes. Dr. Ferdinand 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 regarding your menstrual cycle, sexual health, contraception, future pregnancy plans, or changes in your breast or pelvic health. No question is off-limits; we encourage open communication and proactive discussion of your overall well-being.

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

Breast self-awareness is key—getting to know what's normal for your breasts. Monthly self-exams can help you notice any changes, such as new lumps or skin changes. This is a valuable tool, but it's important to remember that it's a supplement to clinical exams and mammograms performed by Dr. Ferdinand.

I have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer. What does that mean for me?

A family history of breast or ovarian cancer is important. It might mean starting screenings earlier or considering genetic testing, like for BRCA genes. Dr. Ferdinand can help assess your risk and create a proactive, personalized surveillance plan.

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. Lareesa Ferdinand so you don't have to suffer in silence.

What are my options for birth control?

Dr. Ferdinand offers many safe and effective birth control options, including hormonal methods like pills and IUDs, and non-hormonal options. The best choice is a personal one, and she will discuss your lifestyle, health history, and preferences to help you find the perfect fit.

Does Dr. Lareesa Ferdinand manage high-risk pregnancies?

Dr. Ferdinand and our practice manage high-risk pregnancies, including those complicated by advanced maternal age, multiple gestations, or pre-existing health conditions. We work closely with Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) specialists to ensure comprehensive and coordinated care for these patients. This collaborative approach provides the best possible outcomes for both mother and baby.

1514 1st St N
Winter Haven FL 33881
Phone: (866) 234-8534

Dr. Lareesa Ferdinand, 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): 1982767323

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. Lareesa Ferdinand 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.