Dr. Ralph Jennings Jr, MD

Dr. Ralph Jennings Jr, MD is an Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive care at his clinic in Lakeland, FL. He 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. He serves all ages of women, from adolescence through menopause and beyond, and is committed to providing compassionate and evidence-based care in a supportive environment. Please call (863) 680-7000 to confirm if Dr. Ralph Jr is currently accepting new patients.

Dr. Ralph Jennings Jr, MD is an obstetrician gynecologist in Lakeland, FL with over 55 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Medicine in 1965, and has a robust background in Obstetrics and Gynecology care. With over 55 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 his approach to care is collaborative and evidence-based, empowering patients to actively participate in their long-term health management.

He is committed to comprehensive care and is dedicated to the well-being of his patients. Dr. Ralph Jr provides consultations primarily in English.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Ralph Jr 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. Ralph Jr 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. Ralph Jr 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: 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.
• Cervical Polyps: Early detection of cervical polyps through routine screenings allows for prompt treatment if needed, reducing the risk of complications like heavy bleeding or difficulty conceiving.
• Cervicitis: Cervicitis can be easily treated if detected early during your routine gynecological exam, reducing potential long-term consequences on your reproductive health.
• 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.
• Excessive Menstrual Bleeding: Managing excessive menstrual bleeding is crucial for preventing anemia and maintaining overall health and well-being.
• Hypertension: Hypertension is a risk factor for many health issues, so making healthy lifestyle choices and monitoring your blood pressure helps lower your chances of developing them.
• Menopausal and Postmenopausal Disorders: Understanding and managing menopausal and postmenopausal disorders early helps prevent long-term health problems like osteoporosis and heart disease.
• Menstrual Disorders: Regular visits with your OB/GYN are key to identifying and managing menstrual disorders, reducing your risk of developing more complex health concerns down the line.
• 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.
• Uterine Prolapse: Maintaining a healthy weight and practicing good pelvic floor health can significantly reduce your risk of developing uterine prolapse.
• Vaginal and Pelvic Prolapse: Maintaining strong pelvic floor muscles through regular exercise significantly reduces your risk of developing vaginal and pelvic prolapse later in life.
• 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.

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

• Chlamydia Infection Screening: A chlamydia screening is a simple test that can detect a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) early, allowing for prompt treatment to prevent potential long-term health problems.
• Pregnancy Test: Ensure you are prepared for potential pregnancy by using a home pregnancy test and proactively planning for your health.
• Genetic Screening for Breast Cancer: Genetic screening for breast cancer helps identify your risk of developing this disease, allowing for proactive steps like increased surveillance or preventative measures.
• Nuchal Translucency Screening: Nuchal translucency screening is an ultrasound scan during early pregnancy that checks for potential chromosomal abnormalities in your baby.
• Destruction or Excision of Lesion of Cervix (incl. LEEP): Protecting your long-term health, this treatment involves carefully removing suspicious tissue from the cervix to stop potential progression to cervical cancer.
• Hysteroscopy: As a proactive step for women's health, a hysteroscopy provides a detailed view of your uterine lining, facilitating early diagnosis of conditions that may affect fertility or overall wellness.
• Syphilis Screening: Take charge of your sexual health with a syphilis screening – a quick and easy test that can identify an infection before it causes lasting damage.
• Ovarian Cancer Screening: Take a proactive step towards your health by scheduling ovarian cancer screening; early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
• Endometrial Ablation: Endometrial ablation is a procedure designed to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding, thereby preventing complications like anemia and improving your daily life.
• Mammography: Take charge of your breast health with a mammogram—a simple screening test that can find breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages.
• Pregnancy Non-Stress Test: As part of your pregnancy journey, a non-stress test provides valuable insights into your baby's health and helps your doctor plan for a safe and healthy delivery.
• 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.

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. Ralph Jr 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 proactive screening plan, a patient gained peace of mind, knowing that early detection of any potential issues was possible, significantly reducing the risk of cervical cancer.
• By scheduling regular screenings, a patient proactively identified and addressed a cervical polyp, reducing the risk of future complications and gaining peace of mind about their 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. Ralph Jr:

What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Ralph Jr?

Your first visit with Dr. Ralph Jr. will 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. The goal is early detection of any cervical changes that could lead to cancer. Dr. Ralph Jr. follows the latest evidence-based 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 you have 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 to ensure your 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. Ralph Jr. provides guidance through both stages.

I'm concerned about STIs. What screenings are available?

We understand your concern about STIs. Confidential screenings are available for chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, and syphilis. Dr. Ralph Jr. can recommend the appropriate tests based on your individual situation.

Does Dr. Ralph Jr manage high-risk pregnancies?

Dr. Ralph Jr.'s practice manages 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 provide the best possible coordinated care for these pregnancies.

When should I be concerned about an ovarian cyst?

Most ovarian cysts are benign and resolve spontaneously. However, if you experience severe, persistent pain, bloating, or pressure, please contact us. Dr. Ralph Jr. uses ultrasound to evaluate cysts and determine the best course of action.

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

1600 Lakeland Hills Blvd
Lakeland FL 33805
Phone: (863) 680-7000

Dr. Ralph Jennings Jr, 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): 1447222609

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. Ralph Jr 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.