Dr. Richard Matthews, MD

Dr. Richard Matthews, MD is an Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist practicing at his clinic in Tampa, FL. As a trusted partner in preventive health featured on weprevent.org, he is deeply committed to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive care. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), Dr. Matthews understands that 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. Call (813) 961-7440 to schedule.

Dr. Richard Matthews, MD is an obstetrician gynecologist in Tampa, FL with over 50 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Tampa General Hospital in 1973 and is affiliated with HCA Florida Brandon Hospital and HCA Florida Largo Hospital. With over 50 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. He is Board Certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology. Dr. Matthews' approach to care is deeply rooted in collaborative, evidence-based medicine, fostering 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 Matthews 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 Matthews 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 Matthews 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:

• 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.
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Managing UTIs promptly with appropriate treatment helps prevent recurring infections, protecting your overall urinary health and well-being.
• Imperforate Hymen: An imperforate hymen, a condition where the vaginal opening is closed, can be identified during routine checkups, allowing for timely treatment and preventing serious issues like infection or painful fluid buildup.
• Menstrual Disorders: Preventive care includes monitoring your menstrual cycle for changes that could indicate problems like endometriosis or PCOS, allowing for early intervention and better management.
• Rectocele: A rectocele is a bulge of the rectum into the vagina, and early detection through regular pelvic exams can help prevent painful symptoms and complications.
• Ectopic Pregnancy: Knowing your risk factors for ectopic pregnancy, such as previous ectopic pregnancies or pelvic inflammatory disease, can help you work with your doctor to take preventive steps and ensure early detection.
• Prolapse: Prolapse can be managed with lifestyle changes and therapy, making preventative strategies like strengthening pelvic muscles vital for long-term well-being.

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

• Fetal Ultrasound: Protect your baby's health by scheduling regular fetal ultrasounds; this important screening tool helps identify potential issues early on, optimizing your chances of a successful pregnancy.
• Ovarian Cancer Screening: Investing in your well-being: Regular ovarian cancer screenings contribute to the early detection of this cancer, leading to better survival rates.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections Screening: Regular STI screenings help detect infections early, allowing for prompt treatment and preventing long-term health problems.
• Breast Cancer Screening: Don't wait for symptoms – proactive breast cancer screenings empower you to take control of your breast health.
• Nuchal Translucency Screening: To help ensure a healthy pregnancy, nuchal translucency screening uses ultrasound to assess your baby's risk for conditions like Down syndrome.
• Obstetric Ultrasound: By getting regular obstetric ultrasounds, you can actively participate in your baby's healthcare journey, helping to identify potential issues early and improve the chances of a healthy outcome.
• Infertility Evaluation: An infertility evaluation helps identify any issues preventing pregnancy, allowing you to proactively address concerns and explore potential solutions.
• Vaginosis Screening: Vaginosis screening is a vital part of preventive care, allowing for early detection and treatment of bacterial vaginosis, ensuring your comfort and overall health.
• Hepatitis B Virus Screening: Protecting your liver health starts with proactive steps like Hepatitis B screening, a quick test that can identify the virus before it causes long-term problems.
• HIV Screening: Knowing your HIV status is key to making informed decisions about your health and relationships. Regular screening provides peace of mind and facilitates early intervention if necessary.
• Mammography: A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of your breasts that helps detect breast cancer early, even before you can feel a lump, increasing your chances of successful treatment.
• 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.

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 Matthews 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 regularly monitoring blood pressure and adopting a heart-healthy diet, a patient successfully lowered their risk of developing hypertension-related complications, gaining peace of mind and a healthier future.
• By understanding the risk factors and practicing good hygiene, a patient proactively managed their urinary health, avoiding the discomfort and disruption of recurring UTIs. This proactive approach allowed them to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.

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 Matthews:

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

Your first visit with Dr. Matthews 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. Dr. Matthews follows the latest evidence-based recommendations and will create a personalized schedule for you to ensure early detection of any potential cervical changes.

What kind of topics should I bring up during my annual wellness exam?

During your annual wellness exam, please feel free to discuss any concerns regarding your menstrual cycle, sexual health, contraceptive needs, future pregnancy plans, or changes in breast or pelvic health. We encourage open communication and proactive discussion of any topic you'd like to address. No question is off-limits.

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 a significant concern, and we understand your question. It may mean you should begin screenings earlier than average or consider genetic testing, such as for BRCA genes. Dr. Matthews can help assess your individual risk and create a proactive, personalized surveillance plan.

I'm experiencing leakage of urine when I cough or exercise. Is this normal?

This is a very common issue, called stress incontinence, especially after childbirth. It's not something you have to live with; Dr. Matthews can offer many effective solutions, from pelvic floor therapy to simple procedures.

What are the common symptoms of menopause I should be aware of?

Common menopause symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes. These are normal but treatable, and Dr. Matthews can help you navigate this transition and maintain your quality of life.

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

Recommendations for mammograms generally begin at age 40, but individual needs can vary based on family history and personal risk factors. Dr. Matthews will assess your individual risk to recommend the most appropriate screening schedule to ensure early detection of breast cancer.

Does Dr. Richard Matthews manage high-risk pregnancies?

Dr. Matthews' practice manages high-risk pregnancies, encompassing those with 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. Our goal is to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby.

7171 N Dale Mabry Hwy Ste 301
Tampa FL 33614
Phone: (813) 961-7440

Dr. Richard Matthews, 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): 1013905504

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 Matthews 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.