Melanie Dryden, APRN

Melanie Dryden, APRN is an Obstetrics and Gynecology physician dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive care. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458, she provides exceptional care at HCA Florida Citrus Women's Health in Inverness, FL. 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. Call (352) 726-3646 to schedule.

Dr. Melanie APRN earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Florida in 2003, followed by a Master of Science in Nursing as a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Cincinnati in 2010. She holds national certification as a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner, and is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Dr. Melanie APRN's commitment to patient well-being is deeply rooted in her personal experiences and professional background. She earned her medical degree from the University Of Cincinnati in 2010, further solidifying her expertise. Dr. Melanie APRN provides consultations primarily in English.

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

• Infertility: Proactive management of infertility, such as addressing underlying health issues and lifestyle modifications, can significantly increase the chances of successful conception.
• Ovarian Cysts: Preventive care, including routine pelvic exams and ultrasounds, allows for the early detection and management of ovarian cysts, reducing the risk of long-term health problems.
• 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.
• Menopause: Preventive measures, like regular check-ups and healthy lifestyle choices during and after menopause, contribute to maintaining overall well-being and reducing health risks.
• Female Infertility: Female infertility, the inability to conceive after a year of trying, is best addressed through proactive health management to improve your chances of successful pregnancy.
• Gynecologic Disorders: Regular OB/GYN checkups are crucial for early detection of gynecologic disorders, allowing for timely treatment and preventing serious complications.
• Perimenopause: Perimenopause is a natural stage, but understanding its impact on your bone health, cardiovascular health, and mental well-being enables you to take preventive steps to protect your future health.
• Encounters for Normal Pregnancies: Regular checkups during a healthy pregnancy help identify potential problems early, allowing for timely intervention and a safer delivery.
• High Risk Pregnancy: Careful management of a high-risk pregnancy through regular check-ups and proactive interventions significantly reduces the likelihood of premature birth, low birth weight, and other adverse outcomes.
• Excessive Menstrual Bleeding: Managing excessive menstrual bleeding is crucial for preventing anemia and maintaining overall health and well-being.
• Pelvic Pain: Understanding the causes of your pelvic pain is crucial for preventive care and may help avoid more severe health problems later.
• Incontinence: Managing incontinence through strategies like bladder training and medication can help you stay active and maintain your independence as you age.

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

• Pap Tests and Pelvic Exams: Protect your future health by scheduling routine Pap tests and pelvic exams; these screenings can identify potential problems before you even notice symptoms.
• Fibroid Tumor Surgery: For women experiencing significant symptoms from fibroids, surgery offers a way to remove the tumors and improve overall well-being.
• Endometrial Biopsy: As part of your comprehensive women's health plan, an endometrial biopsy can help identify and address potential issues within your uterus, preventing more serious complications down the line.
• Pregnancy Care: Empower yourself with knowledge and support through consistent pregnancy care; regular appointments allow for early identification and treatment of potential concerns.
• Fetal Ultrasound: Fetal ultrasounds provide valuable insights into your baby's health, allowing for early diagnosis of birth defects and potential complications, improving pregnancy outcomes.
• Colposcopy: To help prevent cervical cancer, a colposcopy involves a visual examination of your cervix to detect and treat abnormal cells that might otherwise go unnoticed.
• Vaginal Birth After Cesarean Delivery (VBAC): Considering a VBAC empowers you to actively participate in discussions about the safest and most suitable birthing plan for your individual circumstances after a previous cesarean.
• Wellness Examination: Investing in your health starts with a wellness examination, a vital step in detecting and addressing potential issues before they become major health concerns.
• Pelvic Exams: A pelvic exam is a routine check-up that helps detect early signs of cervical cancer, STIs, and other gynecological issues, allowing for prompt treatment and improved health outcomes.
• Pregnancy Non-Stress Test: This simple test screens for fetal distress during your pregnancy, helping to prevent complications and ensure a healthy delivery.
• Family Planning Services: Protect your long-term reproductive health with family planning services; these comprehensive services can help detect and manage underlying health conditions that may affect fertility.
• Physical Examination: Investing in your well-being starts with a physical exam: your OB/GYN can identify potential risks and address them before they become major health issues.

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. Melanie APRN 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 addressing underlying health concerns and adopting healthier lifestyle choices, a couple significantly improved their chances of conceiving, gaining peace of mind and proactive control over their reproductive health.
• By prioritizing routine pelvic exams and ultrasounds, a patient proactively managed potential ovarian cysts, reducing the risk of future complications and gaining peace of mind.

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. Melanie APRN:

What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Melanie APRN?

Your first visit with Dr. Melanie APRN 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. Dr. Melanie APRN follows the latest evidence-based recommendations and will create a personalized screening 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 visit, feel free to discuss any concerns or questions you have about your menstrual cycle, sexual health, contraception, future pregnancy plans, or any changes in your breast or pelvic health. We encourage open communication and proactive discussion of all topics, as your health and well-being are our top priorities. No question is off-limits.

Does Dr. Melanie APRN manage high-risk pregnancies?

Dr. Melanie APRN and our practice manage high-risk pregnancies, including 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.

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 earlier screening or genetic testing, such as for BRCA genes, to assess your risk. Dr. Melanie APRN can help evaluate your risk and create a proactive, personalized surveillance plan.

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. Melanie APRN uses ultrasound to evaluate cysts and determine the best course of action.

What is endometriosis and how is it diagnosed?

Endometriosis is a condition where uterine-like tissue grows outside the uterus, potentially causing pelvic pain and fertility problems. Diagnosis often involves a thorough history and physical exam, and may be confirmed with minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Melanie APRN is skilled in diagnosing and managing this complex condition.

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. Melanie APRN can help you discuss lifestyle factors, start folic acid, review any medications, and consider genetic carrier screening. Dr. Melanie APRN can be a valuable partner in optimizing your health for a future pregnancy.

HCA Florida Citrus Women's Health
131 S Citrus Ave Ste 201
Inverness FL 34452
Phone: (352) 726-3646

Melanie Dryden, APRN 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): 1063714830

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. Melanie APRN 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.