Dr. Susan Rifai, MD

Dr. Susan Rifai, MD is an Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist practicing at AdventHealth Medical Group OB/GYN at Altamonte Springs in Altamonte Springs, FL. As a partner in preventive health on weprevent.org, she is dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive care. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), Dr. Rifai 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. She 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 (813) 642-4247 to schedule.

Dr. Rifai's commitment to patient well-being stems from her dedication to providing comprehensive care throughout a woman's life. A graduate of the University of Florida, earning her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and her medical degree summa cum laude from the University of Florida College of Medicine, she completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Winnie Palmer Hospital in Orlando, FL. Dr. Rifai is a member of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and is deeply invested in the well-being of her patients, particularly in the critical life stages of adolescence, pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause. Her goal is to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care while fostering a supportive environment where patients feel heard and at ease. Dr. Susan Rifai offers consultations in Arabic.

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

• Genitourinary Tract Infections in Pregnancy: Regular checkups and open communication with your doctor are key to preventing and managing genitourinary infections throughout your pregnancy.
• Miscarriages: Understanding miscarriage risk factors and seeking early prenatal care can help prevent future occurrences and ensure a healthier pregnancy.
• Noninflammatory Cervical Disorders: Preventive care, including routine pelvic exams, is essential for detecting non-inflammatory cervical conditions early, which often leads to better treatment outcomes and avoids serious consequences.
• Uterine Fibroids: Uterine fibroids can affect fertility and pregnancy, so understanding your risk and seeking preventative care can help you plan for a healthy future.
• Genital Herpes: Understanding the risks associated with genital herpes and taking proactive steps like safe sex practices and regular STI testing are essential to reduce your chances of contracting this infection.
• Pelvic Abscess: Regular pelvic exams and prompt treatment of any infections can help prevent the formation of a pelvic abscess, safeguarding your reproductive health.
• Perimenopause: Recognizing the signs of perimenopause, such as irregular periods and vaginal dryness, helps you and your doctor develop a plan to address these changes and prevent future health problems.
• Preeclampsia: By understanding your risk factors and engaging in preventive measures like maintaining a healthy weight and managing chronic conditions, you can lower your chances of developing preeclampsia.
• Breech Position: A breech position means your baby is positioned feet or buttocks first in your uterus, which can be identified through regular prenatal checkups, allowing for early intervention to improve the chances of a safe delivery.
• Pregestational Diabetes Mellitus: Having diabetes before getting pregnant increases risks for both you and your baby, so getting checked and managing your blood sugar is crucial for a healthy pregnancy.
• 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.
• Vulvovaginal Diseases: Managing vulvovaginal diseases effectively prevents discomfort, potential infections, and long-term health issues, highlighting the importance of routine gynecological exams.

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

• Birth Control: Proactively manage your menstrual cycle, reduce the risk of unplanned pregnancies, and improve overall reproductive health by choosing a suitable birth control method.
• C-Section: Understanding the circumstances that may necessitate a C-section, like fetal distress or complications during labor, allows for proactive preparation and informed decision-making.
• Hysterectomy: A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus, sometimes including the cervix and ovaries, which may be necessary to alleviate severe symptoms or address underlying health concerns.
• Hysteroscopy: For peace of mind and improved reproductive health, a hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure offering a direct visualization of your uterine cavity, enabling early detection of potential problems.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Salpingo Oopherectomy: If you are at high risk for ovarian or fallopian tube cancer, a salpingo-oophorectomy is a surgical procedure that can be considered as a proactive step to significantly reduce your cancer risk.

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. Susan Rifai 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 attending regular prenatal appointments and openly discussing concerns with their healthcare provider, a pregnant woman felt empowered to proactively manage her risk of genitourinary tract infections, ensuring a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
• By understanding her miscarriage risk factors and engaging in early prenatal care, a patient felt empowered to proactively reduce future risks and welcomed a healthy pregnancy.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. She 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. Susan Rifai:

What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Susan Rifai?

Your first visit with Dr. Rifai is 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 by age and risk factors, but the goal is early detection of cervical changes that could lead to cancer. Dr. Rifai 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 regarding your menstrual cycle, sexual health, birth control, future pregnancy plans, or changes in your breast or pelvic health. No question is off-limits; we encourage open communication and proactive health management. We're here to support your well-being.

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 affecting fertility. Diagnosis typically involves a detailed history and physical exam, and may be confirmed with minimally invasive surgical procedures. Dr. Susan Rifai is skilled in diagnosing and managing this complex condition.

What's the difference between perimenopause and menopause?

Perimenopause is the transitional period leading up to menopause, often characterized by irregular periods and early symptoms. Menopause is the point when periods have stopped for 12 consecutive months. Dr. Rifai provides support and 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. Rifai can recommend the appropriate tests based on your individual situation.

What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that can cause irregular periods, acne, and excess hair growth, and may impact fertility. Dr. Rifai can help with symptom management and long-term health planning.

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

AdventHealth Medical Group OB/GYN at Altamonte Springs
661 E Altamonte Dr Ste 318
Altamonte Springs FL 32701
Phone: (813) 642-4247

Dr. Susan Rifai, 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): 1518586593

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. Susan Rifai 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.