Dr. Michael Hennessey, MD

Dr. Michael Hennessey, MD is an Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive care. He practices at Northwest Florida Woman Care in Niceville, FL, and is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). His commitment extends beyond routine checkups; 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. Hennessey is currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey; please call (850) 739-6567 to schedule.

Dr. Hennessey earned his medical degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine in 1998 and completed his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Florida College of Medicine in Pensacola in 2002. With over 25 years of dedicated experience, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He is Board Certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology and specializes in the comprehensive medical care of women of all ages. Dr. Hennessey is on Medical Staff at Fort Walton Beach Medical Center. He is committed to patient comfort and confidence, striving for excellence in service and healthcare, and is responsive to community needs to improve the health and welfare of women and children. He offers consultations in Spanish.

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

• Maternal Anemia: Protecting your pregnancy involves proactively managing anemia; early identification and treatment minimize risks of complications for both you and your child.
• Multiple Gestation: Regular checkups during a multiple gestation pregnancy allow for early identification of risks, helping your healthcare provider take preventative measures to ensure a safer delivery.
• Noninflammatory Cervical Disorders: Many non-inflammatory cervical issues are manageable, and early diagnosis through routine Pap smears and pelvic exams significantly reduces the chances of long-term problems.
• HPV (Human Papillomavirus): HPV is a common virus that can be prevented through vaccination and regular screenings, helping to protect against cervical cancer and other health problems.
• Female Infertility due to Ovulatory Disorder: Ovulation problems are a major cause of infertility, but proactive monitoring and treatment can significantly improve your chances of conceiving.
• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: Managing PCOS through lifestyle changes and medical intervention helps prevent long-term health issues like type 2 diabetes and heart disease, making preventive care crucial.
• Ovarian Cysts: Taking a proactive approach to your reproductive health, which includes discussing any concerning symptoms with your doctor, is key in preventing cyst-related complications.
• Uterine Carcinoma: Preventive measures like maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise may lower your risk of developing uterine cancer, contributing to your overall well-being.
• Vaginal Cancer: Managing vaginal cancer effectively, through early detection and appropriate treatment, helps prevent further progression and improves long-term health and quality of life.
• Genitourinary Tract Hemorrhage: Bleeding from the vagina outside of your normal menstrual cycle should be evaluated promptly by your doctor to identify any underlying issues and prevent future 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.
• Salpingitis: Protecting your reproductive health involves being aware of salpingitis, a fallopian tube infection often linked to STIs, so early detection through regular checkups can significantly minimize long-term complications.

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

• Obstetric Ultrasound: An obstetric ultrasound is a safe and painless imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of your baby, helping you monitor its growth and development throughout your pregnancy.
• Hysterectomy: For women experiencing debilitating symptoms from uterine conditions, a hysterectomy offers potential relief and improved overall well-being, often improving quality of life.
• Colposcopy: Colposcopy is a simple procedure that uses a special magnifying tool to examine your cervix for any abnormal cells that could lead to cervical cancer.
• Destruction or Excision of Lesion of Cervix (incl. LEEP): This procedure removes abnormal cervical tissue to prevent the development of cervical cancer.
• Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery: Pelvic reconstructive surgery can proactively address pelvic organ prolapse, restoring support and improving quality of life.
• Destruction or Excision of Vaginal Lesions: By removing abnormal vaginal lesions, we can prevent the development of more significant health problems and ensure your long-term vaginal health.
• Endocervical Curettage: Taking a proactive step towards better health, an endocervical curettage involves collecting a sample of cells from your cervix to screen for precancerous or cancerous changes.
• Amniocentesis: Amniocentesis is a prenatal test that allows doctors to check your baby's chromosomes for potential genetic abnormalities, helping you make informed decisions about your pregnancy.
• Endometrial Ablation: Taking a proactive step towards better uterine health, endometrial ablation helps alleviate bothersome symptoms associated with heavy periods, such as fatigue and anemia.
• Intrauterine Device (IUD) Placement: An IUD placement is a proactive measure for women seeking a long-term, reversible contraceptive option, minimizing the need for frequent visits to refill prescriptions or other measures.
• Vulvectomy: A vulvectomy is a surgical procedure that helps remove abnormal tissue on the vulva, which may be a necessary step in preventing or treating certain conditions.
• Salpingo Oopherectomy: To prevent certain cancers, a salpingo-oophorectomy involves the removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries, a preventative measure discussed with your doctor based on your risk factors.

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 Hennessey 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 addressing potential anemia risks during her pregnancy, a patient ensured a healthier pregnancy and minimized the likelihood of complications for herself and her baby. This proactive approach provided her with peace of mind and confidence in her health journey.
• By attending regular prenatal appointments, a pregnant woman proactively managed her multiple pregnancy, reducing potential risks and ensuring a healthy delivery. This proactive approach provided peace of mind for the entire family.

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 Hennessey:

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

Your first visit with Dr. Hennessey is designed to 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, but the goal is early detection of potential cervical changes. Dr. Hennessey follows the most up-to-date screening 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, birth control needs, future pregnancy plans, or changes in breast or pelvic health. No question is too personal or insignificant; we encourage open communication about your overall well-being.

What's the difference between perimenopause and menopause?

Perimenopause is the transitional period before menopause, often with irregular periods and early symptoms. Menopause is the point when periods stop for 12 consecutive months. Dr. Hennessey 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. Hennessey can help with symptom management and long-term health planning.

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 thorough history and physical exam, and may be confirmed with minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Hennessey is skilled in diagnosing and managing this complex condition.

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. Hennessey can help you discuss lifestyle choices, start folic acid, review current medications, and consider genetic carrier screening. Dr. Hennessey is happy to partner with you in optimizing your health for a future pregnancy.

At what age should I start getting mammograms, and how often?

Mammogram recommendations generally start at age 40, but can vary based on family history and personal risk factors. Dr. Hennessey will assess your individual risk to recommend the most appropriate screening schedule to ensure early detection of breast cancer.

Northwest Florida Woman Care
4554 E Highway 20
Niceville FL 32578
Phone: (850) 739-6567

Dr. Michael Hennessey, 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): 1457315277

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 Hennessey 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.