Dr. Shawn Stephens, MD

Dr. Shawn Stephens, MD is an Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive care at his clinic in Sarasota, FL. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), Dr. Stephens is a valuable partner in preventive health. 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 (941) 359-8300 to schedule.

With over 20 years of dedicated experience in Obstetrics and Gynecology care, Dr. Stephens brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine in 2002 and completed his residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Rochester General Hospital, where he also served as Chief Resident. A board-certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist, he specializes in the comprehensive medical care of women of all ages. Dr. Stephens is passionate about surgical robotics using the DaVinci Robotic System, as well as office-based surgery, and has performed hundreds of minimally invasive procedures. He is Board Certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology. Dr. Stephens provides consultations primarily in English.

University Park Obstetrics and Gynecology is patient-centered, dedicated to delivering high-quality, safe, and compassionate care. He understands the importance of meeting the needs of each patient, and is committed to providing the best possible experience. Dr. Stephens is a firm believer in proactive health and is eager to partner with you to ensure your well-being. He is committed to providing exceptional care, from routine check-ups to complex procedures, and is dedicated to his patients and practice.

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

• Twin Pregnancy: Managing a twin pregnancy effectively through proactive monitoring and timely intervention can prevent premature birth and other complications.
• 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.
• 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.
• Genitourinary Tract Infections in Pregnancy: Preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs) during pregnancy is crucial for a healthy pregnancy, as UTIs can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
• Blood Disorders in Pregnancy: Knowing your risk for blood disorders before and during pregnancy helps ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery for you and your baby.
• 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.
• Pelvic Abscess: A pelvic abscess is a collection of pus in the pelvic area, and early detection through regular OB/GYN checkups can help prevent serious complications like sepsis.
• 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.
• Uterine Diseases: Understanding your family history and taking steps to address any risk factors associated with uterine diseases can dramatically improve your chances of maintaining optimal reproductive health.
• Symptomatic Menopause: Preventive care during menopause involves recognizing and treating symptoms such as vaginal dryness or sleep disturbances to maintain optimal health and prevent further complications.
• Yeast Infections: Understanding your risk factors for yeast infections, such as diabetes or antibiotic use, allows for proactive prevention strategies and healthier choices.
• Sexual Disorders: Open communication with your OB/GYN about sexual health concerns allows for early detection and treatment of potential problems, improving your quality of life.

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

• Destruction or Excision of Lesion of Cervix (incl. LEEP): A preventative measure, this procedure targets and removes areas of abnormal cells on your cervix to avoid future health complications.
• Syphilis Screening: Early detection is key to managing syphilis, a serious infection. A syphilis screening provides peace of mind and facilitates prompt treatment if needed.
• Myomectomy: To manage bothersome uterine fibroids and maintain your reproductive health, a myomectomy is a procedure that surgically removes these growths.
• Vulvectomy: A vulvectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of the vulva, sometimes necessary to treat vulvar cancer or severe precancerous conditions, helping prevent further progression of the disease.
• Intrauterine Device (IUD) Placement: Take control of your reproductive health with an IUD placement—a safe and effective method for long-term birth control that significantly reduces unplanned pregnancies.
• Ovarian Cancer Screening: Take a proactive step towards your health by scheduling ovarian cancer screening; early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
• Gonorrhea Screening: Regular gonorrhea screenings are an important part of preventive care for women, helping to identify and treat this infection before it impacts fertility or overall health.
• Laparoscopic Surgical Procedure: To maintain your reproductive health, a laparoscopic surgery can provide a precise diagnosis of conditions affecting your pelvis and allow for timely treatment.
• C-Section: A Cesarean section, or C-section, is a surgical procedure to deliver a baby through an incision in the mother's abdomen and uterus, sometimes necessary for safer childbirth.
• Salpingectomy: Taking charge of your reproductive health, a salpingectomy is a surgical option to remove your fallopian tubes, lowering your chances of developing ectopic pregnancies and some ovarian cancers.
• 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 Ultrasound: A pregnancy ultrasound is a safe and painless way to monitor your baby's growth and development, helping to identify potential issues early on.

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. Shawn Stephens 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 managing their twin pregnancy with regular checkups and tailored care, a family gained peace of mind and significantly reduced the risk of complications, ensuring a healthy outcome for both mothers and babies.
• By attending all prenatal screenings, a pregnant woman learned about the early signs of placenta previa, allowing her to proactively manage the risk of significant blood loss and ensuring a healthy pregnancy outcome.

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. Shawn Stephens:

What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Shawn Stephens?

Your first visit with Dr. Stephens is a partnership-building session. We'll review your detailed health history, discuss your health goals and concerns, and create a personalized 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 any cervical changes. Dr. Stephens 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, be open and proactive about discussing your menstrual cycle, sexual health, contraception, pregnancy plans, and any changes in breast or pelvic health. No question is off-limits; we want to ensure your well-being.

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. Stephens can help optimize your health by discussing lifestyle factors, starting folic acid, reviewing current medications, and considering genetic carrier screening. Dr. Stephens is happy to partner with you in optimizing your health for a future pregnancy.

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. Stephens can recommend appropriate tests based on your individual situation.

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

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

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

Does Dr. Shawn Stephens manage high-risk pregnancies?

Dr. Stephens and our practice manage high-risk pregnancies, including those due to advanced maternal age, multiple gestations, or pre-existing health conditions. We work closely with Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialists to provide comprehensive care and ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

2401 University Pkwy Bldg 1
Sarasota FL 34243
Phone: (941) 359-8300

Dr. Shawn Stephens, 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): 1629091913

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. Shawn Stephens 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.