Dr. Richard Handal, MD

Dr. Richard Handal, MD is an Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist practicing at his clinic in Boca Raton, FL. He is a registered provider with The Florida Board of Medicine, adhering to Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), and dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive 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, and is currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Please call (561) 912-9888 to schedule.

Dr. Richard Handal, MD is an obstetrician gynecologist in Boca Raton, FL with over 35 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from State University of New York Downstate Health Sciences University College of Medicine in 1988 and is affiliated with Boca Raton Regional Hospital. With over 35 years of dedicated experience in Obstetrics and Gynecology care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. Following medical school, he undertook residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Albany Medical Center Hospital, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of all ages of women, from adolescence through menopause and beyond. Dr. Handal is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. He offers consultations in Spanish.

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

• Vaginal Prolapse: Managing chronic conditions like constipation and obesity can help prevent or reduce the severity of vaginal prolapse; these preventive strategies support overall pelvic health.
• Breech Position: Knowing your baby's position through consistent prenatal visits helps your healthcare provider determine the safest birthing plan, reducing the risk of birth trauma.
• Coagulation Defects in Pregnancy and Postpartum: If you have a history of blood clotting disorders, proactive steps during pregnancy can safeguard your health and the health of your baby.
• 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.
• High Risk Pregnancy: Identifying risk factors early in pregnancy allows healthcare providers to implement preventive measures, like specialized monitoring or medication, to minimize potential complications.
• Cervicitis: Cervicitis can be easily treated if detected early during your routine gynecological exam, reducing potential long-term consequences on your reproductive health.
• Noninflammatory Cervical Disorders: Protecting your cervical health involves understanding non-inflammatory disorders and participating in preventive screenings to minimize risks and maintain reproductive well-being.
• Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Managing abnormal uterine bleeding early can help minimize disruptions to your daily life and prevent potentially serious health consequences down the line. Regular OB/GYN visits are crucial.
• Asymptomatic Post-Menopausal Status: Staying healthy after menopause means attending regular appointments for preventive care; early detection of potential problems is key for better health outcomes.
• Cervical Polyps: While usually harmless, cervical polyps can sometimes cause abnormal bleeding or discharge, making regular OB/GYN visits crucial for early identification and management to prevent more serious issues.
• 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.
• Intrauterine Growth Restriction: Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) means a baby isn't growing as expected in the womb, and early detection through regular prenatal checkups can help prevent serious 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. Richard Handal offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Bacteriuria Screening: Taking charge of your health involves a bacteriuria screening, which proactively identifies the presence of bacteria in your urine, allowing for prompt treatment of UTIs.
• Syphilis Screening: Protecting your future health starts with proactive steps like a syphilis screening, which helps detect a treatable infection that can have severe consequences if left untreated.
• Amniocentesis: By taking a sample of fluid surrounding your baby, amniocentesis provides valuable insights into potential chromosomal disorders, allowing for early detection and appropriate medical guidance.
• Pregnancy Test: Proactively managing your reproductive health begins with a pregnancy test, helping you make informed decisions about your body.
• Gynecologic Cancer Screening: Protecting your future health is easy with proactive gynecologic cancer screenings, which can detect early signs of several types of gynecological cancers.
• Pregnancy Non-Stress Test: A non-stress test during pregnancy helps monitor your baby's heart rate to ensure they're doing well and identify any potential problems early on.
• Vaginal Prolapse Surgery: As a proactive measure to manage symptoms like pelvic pressure and urinary incontinence, vaginal prolapse surgery can significantly improve your comfort and quality of life.
• Colpopexy: Colpopexy is a surgical procedure that helps correct a condition called pelvic organ prolapse, improving your quality of life and preventing further complications.
• C-Section: A C-section can be a planned or emergency procedure, and discussing your options with your doctor helps prepare you for different birth scenarios.
• Fluid Contrast Ultrasound: Fluid contrast ultrasound is a specialized imaging technique that uses sound waves and a contrast fluid to create clearer images of your pelvic organs, helping your doctor detect abnormalities early and prevent serious health issues.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections Screening: Protecting your sexual health is key; STI screenings identify infections so you can get the care you need and avoid complications.
• STD Screening: Investing in your health means getting regular STD screenings. These tests can identify infections you might not even know you have, enabling early intervention and better outcomes.

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. Richard Handal 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 focusing on healthy weight management and regular bowel habits, a patient significantly reduced their risk of vaginal prolapse, gaining confidence in their overall pelvic health. This proactive approach allowed them to embrace a fulfilling life free from future concerns.
• Knowing their baby's position through consistent prenatal visits, a family was reassured that their healthcare provider could develop the safest birthing plan, reducing the risk of birth trauma.

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. Richard Handal:

What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Richard Handal?

Your first visit with Dr. Handal is a collaborative partnership-building session. We'll review your detailed health history, discuss your health goals and concerns, and create a plan for future screenings. It's 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 cervical changes that could lead to cancer. Dr. Handal 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 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. Your health is our priority.

When should I be concerned about an ovarian cyst?

Most ovarian cysts are benign and resolve spontaneously. However, severe, persistent pain, bloating, or pressure warrant concern. Dr. Handal uses ultrasound to evaluate cysts and determine the best course of action, whether monitoring or management.

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

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

Breast self-exams are a way to become familiar with your breasts and what's normal for you. Doing them monthly helps you notice any changes, such as new lumps or skin changes. They're a helpful tool, but not a substitute for regular clinical exams and mammograms with Dr. Handal.

What are my options for birth control?

Many safe and effective birth control options exist, including hormonal methods like pills and IUDs, and non-hormonal options. Dr. Handal will discuss your lifestyle, health history, and preferences to help you find the best fit for you.

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 sometimes impacting fertility. Diagnosis typically involves a detailed history and physical exam, and may be confirmed with minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Handal is skilled in diagnosing and managing this complex condition.

5503 N Federal Hwy
Boca Raton FL 33487
Phone: (561) 912-9888

Dr. Richard Handal, 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): 1578661112

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. Richard Handal 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.