Dr. Michael Cotter, MD

Dr. Michael Cotter, MD is an Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist practicing at his clinic in Gainesville, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). As a partner in preventive health featured on weprevent.org, Dr. Cotter is dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Obstetrics and Gynecology care. 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. Dr. Cotter is currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey and encourage you to call (352) 641-9234 to schedule.

Dr. Cotter brings over 30 years of dedicated experience in Obstetrics and Gynecology care, a wealth of clinical knowledge, and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from University Of Miami Miller School Of Medicine in 1990. He completed an internship at University Of Florida - Jacksonville Fl, gaining foundational clinical experience. Following medical school, he undertook residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at University Of Florida - Jacksonville Fl, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of All ages of women, from adolescence through menopause and beyond. He is deeply committed to patient-centered care, using evidence-based medicine to address concerns and fulfill desired outcomes. Dr. Cotter offers consultations in Spanish. Born and raised in Gainesville, Florida, he is a diehard University of Florida Gator fan and continues the family tradition of ObGyn medicine. He is currently accepting new patients and encourages you to schedule a consultation.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Michael Cotter 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. Michael Cotter 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. Michael Cotter 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 Cancer: Regular checkups, including Pap tests and pelvic exams, are crucial for early detection of uterine cancer, which significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.
• Pap Smear Abnormalities: An abnormal Pap smear result may indicate precancerous changes or infection, making early detection through regular screenings crucial for preventing cervical cancer.
• Hemorrhage from Placenta Previa: Early detection of placenta previa through prenatal screenings is crucial to preventing serious complications, like significant blood loss, for both mother and baby.
• Encounters for Normal Pregnancies: Even in normal pregnancies, consistent monitoring can help spot potential issues early and prevent complications that might arise later.
• Tubal Pregnancy: Regular check-ups with your OB/GYN are vital for preventing tubal pregnancies as early diagnosis of risk factors and conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease can aid in prompt management.
• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that can lead to irregular periods, weight gain, and fertility problems, but early diagnosis and management can significantly reduce these risks.
• Cervical Cancer: Regular Pap smears and HPV tests are crucial for early detection of cervical cancer, allowing for prompt treatment and preventing progression to more serious stages.
• Twin Pregnancy: Early and consistent prenatal care for a twin pregnancy is crucial for managing potential risks and ensuring a healthy outcome for both mother and babies.
• Eclampsia: Regular prenatal visits and diligent blood pressure monitoring can help detect and manage preeclampsia, thereby preventing it from progressing to the dangerous condition of eclampsia.
• Cervical Leukoplakia: Cervical leukoplakia is a precancerous condition that can be effectively managed through regular screenings and follow-up care, thereby preventing serious health issues.
• Uterine Fibroids: Though many women experience no symptoms, regular screenings help detect uterine fibroids early, preventing potential complications like infertility or the need for major surgery.
• Breech Position: Regular prenatal care helps detect if your baby is in a breech position, giving you and your doctor time to explore different delivery options to reduce potential risks during labor.

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

• Intrauterine Device (IUD) Placement: Proactively manage your family planning by choosing IUD placement, a convenient and reliable form of contraception that can last for years.
• Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery: Protecting your future health starts with informed choices: advanced laparoscopic surgery provides a less invasive way to address gynecological problems, often leading to faster recovery.
• Oophorectomy: To prevent ovarian cancer or manage certain medical conditions, an oophorectomy involves the surgical removal of one or both ovaries, a proactive step for some women's health journeys.
• Dilation and Curettage: For women experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding or other concerning symptoms, a D&C provides your doctor with valuable tissue samples to identify and address the cause, helping to prevent complications.
• Episiotomy Repair: By undergoing episiotomy repair, you're taking charge of your postpartum recovery and minimizing the risk of future issues, such as painful scarring or chronic pain.
• Obstetric Ultrasound: An obstetric ultrasound is a crucial tool in ensuring a healthy pregnancy for both you and your baby, offering valuable insights into your baby's health and development from the earliest stages.
• Hysteroscopy: To help maintain your reproductive well-being, a hysteroscopy allows for the detection of uterine abnormalities, often allowing for early intervention and preventing more invasive procedures later on.
• Amniocentesis: Amniocentesis is a prenatal diagnostic procedure that helps detect potential birth defects and genetic abnormalities in your developing baby, allowing for early intervention and preparation.
• Hysterectomy: A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus, sometimes including the cervix and ovaries, which may be necessary to alleviate severe symptoms or address underlying health concerns.
• Laparoscopy: Protecting your future health starts with proactive care. Laparoscopy allows for a precise examination of your internal organs, facilitating early detection and treatment of potential problems.
• Endometrial Biopsy: An endometrial biopsy is a simple procedure that helps detect abnormal uterine tissue, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment of potential problems.
• 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.

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. Michael Cotter 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 consistently adhering to a proactive health plan, including regular checkups and screenings, a patient felt empowered and confident in her reproductive health, significantly reducing her risk of uterine cancer.
• By diligently scheduling Pap smears, a patient ensured early detection of any potential issues, significantly reducing her risk of complications and promoting peace of mind. Regular screenings allowed her to proactively address any concerns and maintain optimal reproductive health.

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. Michael Cotter:

What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Michael Cotter?

Your first visit with Dr. Cotter is designed as 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, but the goal is early detection of potential cervical changes. Dr. Cotter follows the latest evidence-based recommendations and will create a personalized screening 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 about your menstrual cycle, sexual health, contraception, future pregnancy plans, or changes in your breast or pelvic health. We encourage open communication and proactive discussion about your overall well-being. No question is off-limits; we are here to help.

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 may mean you need to start screenings earlier or consider genetic testing, such as for BRCA genes. Dr. Cotter can help assess your risk and create a proactive, personalized surveillance plan.

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, particularly after childbirth. It's not something you have to live with; Dr. Cotter can offer effective solutions, including pelvic floor therapy and various procedures.

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

Breast self-awareness, not finding a lump, is the goal. Monthly self-exams help you recognize any changes, such as new lumps or skin changes. This is a helpful tool, but it's important to supplement it with regular clinical exams and mammograms by Dr. Cotter.

Does Dr. Michael Cotter manage high-risk pregnancies?

Dr. Cotter's practice manages high-risk pregnancies, which include those with advanced maternal age, multiple gestations, or pre-existing health conditions. We work closely with Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) specialists to provide comprehensive care and ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

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. Cotter can help with symptom management and long-term health planning.

6440 W Newberry Rd Ste 502
Gainesville FL 32605
Phone: (352) 641-9234

Dr. Michael Cotter, 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): 1669492641

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. Michael Cotter 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.