north-texas-womans-healthcare

2024 Office Christmas Party!

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 13:10:21 GMT

As 2024 comes to a close, we want to express our gratitude for your trust and support. May your holiday season be filled with joy, love, and good health. Wishing you a wonderful New Year ahead!

2023 Office Christmas Party!

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 13:35:19 GMT

Season's Greetings from North Texas Women's Health Associates! Take a peek into the festivities at our 2023 office Christmas celebration. Wishing you all a joyful and wellness-filled holiday season!

An cherished holiday tradition for us is having our newest team members serenade us with a delightful Christmas carol! Their performance was superb and truly infused the North Texas Women's Healthcare Associates with festive cheer!

Living Magazine - Best Of - Readers' Choice Winner!

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 19:00:30 GMT

Congratulations! The readers of Living Magazine voted and North Texas Women’s Health Care Associates Won Best OB/GYN in Keller for 2023. This is a very prestigious award that local businesses try to win each year and residents value when looking for new businesses and services.

Retirement of Dr. Maurice Gagnon

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 13:05:57 GMT

Dear Patients, Friends and Colleagues,

After 43 years of practice in Northeast Tarrant County, it is with mixed emotions and after careful deliberation, that I have arrived at the decision to retire from medical practice on December 31, 2022.

I will continue my practice until that date, but I will no longer see new patients after December 1,2022. The last month of my practice will be devoted to seeing my established patients for their continuing care I would welcome the opportunity for you to make a final appointment if you need to do so. My last day in the office will be on December 30,2022,

I have been fortunate to have worked with Dr. Michael White since 1995 and more recently with our newest colleague, Dr Tod, Our plan is for Drs. White, Ramirez and Tod to assume care of my existing patients upon my retirement. They all are highly competent, caring, well trained, and experienced physicians whom I am confident will provide you with excellent OB/GYN medical care.

Your medical records are confidential and a copy can be transferred to another doctor or released to you or to another person you designate only with your permission. If you plan to continue with this office, you can sign an authorization to release your records to one of the above physicians on your next visit. If you choose to see a different physician, please sign the enclosed authorization and return it to my office as quickly as possible so we may transfer your records to your new doctor. Your records will continue to be on file at this office,

I have greatly valued our relationship. Thank you for allowing me the honor of helping with your medical needs over the many years. Your loyalty and friendship are what have made my medical practice so meaningful to me, I am also grateful to my fellow physicians for allowing me to help care for their patients. Best wishes for your future health.

Sincerely,

Maurice R Gagnon, M.D.

Opening Day!

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 12:08:05 GMT

This year our staff were superheroes! We always have a fun time @ NTWH during Halloween!

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Thu, 10 Nov 2022 17:05:00 GMT

This year our staff were superheroes! We always have a fun time @ NTWH during Halloween!

Thank you for choosing North Texas Women's HealthCare as your medical provider. Our front office staff look forward to serving you.

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 12:24:59 GMT

Thank you for choosing North Texas Women's HealthCare as your medical provider. Our front office staff look forward to serving you.

Congratulations to Dr. Tod for receiving "Best Physician Comment" in June 2022 at Texas HealthCare/North Texas Women's HealthCare Associates

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Wed, 29 Jun 2022 14:51:41 GMT

Congratulations to Dr Tod for receiving "Best Physician Comment" in June 2022 at Texas HealthCare/North Texas Women's HealthCare Associates

"I have been blown away with the care provided by Dr. Tod. Her bedside manner has won over my complete trust since the moment we met at my first visit. Her caring nature extends beyond each appointment and it gives me such confidence to know I am in good hands. I would recommend her to any friend or family member."

Drug Representative Dinner

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Fri, 27 May 2022 16:03:36 GMT

Drug rep dinner hosted by Dr. Kavoussi at Perry's Restaurant on May 11th, 2022.

Keller Services Charities Golf Classic Sponsorship

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Mon, 09 May 2022 13:49:31 GMT

Thank you Keller Services Charities!

On Wednesday, May 4th it was our pleasure to be a sponsor at the Keller Services Charities Golf Classic. Some spouses of our staff and doctors had a great time and enjoyed the nice weather!

Thank you Keller Services Charities for providing an enjoyable experience.

We are accepting new patients and have offices in Keller and the Alliance area.

Non Permanent Birth Control | Pros & Cons

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 18:39:40 GMT

The reasons women and young women choose to use a form of birth control is as varied as women themselves. One reason is obvious, to avoid pregnancy. Hormonal birth control methods can help regulate periods, sometimes eliminating menstrual cycles (which will return when the hormonal methods are terminated), treat acne and/or help prevent ovarian cysts. The only birth control method that helps prevent sexually transmitted diseases is the condom.

Intrauterine devices or IUDs

Hormonal IUD — Mirena, Skyla and Liletta are hormonal IUDs with protection ranging from 3 years for the Skyla and Liletta to 5 years for the Mirena. These are small T shaped devices inserted into the uterus that release progestin, preventing the ovaries from releasing an egg and causing the cervical mucus to thicken so sperm can’t reach the egg. A healthcare provider inserts the IUD.

Copper IUD — The ParaGard is a small T shaped device inserted into the uterus that releases a small amount of copper into the uterus preventing the sperm from reaching and fertilizing the egg. If fertilization occurs, the IUD keeps the fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus lining. A healthcare provider inserts the copper IUD. It can provide protection for 10 years.

Pros — Due to low user error, IUDs are one of the most effective birth control methods on the market. They are also one of the most affordable methods. Many insurance plans cover IUDs at 100%.* They can be removed at any time if birth control is no longer desired. Studies suggest that hormonal IUDs not only reduce heavy menstrual bleeding by up to 90 percent after several months of use, but often cause women to stop getting their periods altogether.

Cons — Cramping is common the first 24-48 hours after an IUD is inserted. Some women may experience cramping for a few days, weeks or months as their bodies adjust. Copper IUDs do not reduce menstrual bleeding. None of the IUDs improve hormone related acne as they do not contain estrogen.

Nexplanon

This is an implantable rod which is matchstick-size, flexible rod that is put under the skin of the upper arm. The rod releases a progestin, which causes changes in the lining of the uterus and the cervical mucus to keep the sperm from joining an egg. It is effective for up to 3 years.

Pros — Due to low user error, it is one of the most effective birth control methods on the market. It is one of the most affordable methods. Many insurance plans cover the Nexplanon at 100%.* It can be removed at any time if birth control is no longer desired.

Cons — Changes in the intensity, frequency or duration of menstrual bleeding is the most common reason given for removal of Nexplanons prior to 3 years. Other undesirable side effects sited are acne, weight gain, headaches and/or breast pain.

Oral contraceptives — "The Pill"

The Pill contains the hormones estrogen and progestin. It prevents the ovaries from releasing an egg. It also causes changes in the lining of the uterus preventing the sperm from joining the egg. Many types of oral contraceptives are offered. Consult your healthcare provider to determine which is best for you.

If you have any of the below risk factors, the pill may not be the best birth control for you:

Over 35 years of age and smoke
Have a history of blood clots
Have a history of breast, liver, or endometrial cancer

Pros — The Pill may make menstrual cycles more regular (or eliminate cycles with certain pills), may reduce bleeding and cramping with monthly cycles and may reduce pain with ovulation. The Pill may also help protect against ovarian and endometrial cancer, reduce the symptoms of endometriosis, reduce ovarian cysts and reduce acne. Many insurance plans cover certain oral contraceptives at 100%.*

Cons — Effectiveness of The Pill is diminished if it is not taken at the same time daily. Reported undesirable side effects include weight gain, bloating and headaches. Antibiotics may reduce the effectiveness of The Pill.

Depo-Provera

This is an injection of the hormone progestin which needs to be repeated every 3 months. The shot stops the ovaries from releasing an egg and causes changes in the cervix that keep the sperm from joining with the egg. Because the injection can cause temporary loss of bone density it should not be used more than 2 years in a row. The loss increases the longer this method is used. The bone density starts increasing after depo-provera is stopped. It may increase the risk of fracture and osteoporosis if used long- term.

Pros — Each injection provides 3 months protection against pregnancy. Many women stop having monthly cycles. It may protect against uterine cancer. Many insurance plans cover depo-provera injections prescribed as a contraceptive at 100%.*

Cons — The injection requires a visit to your providers office every 3 months. The injection may cause a decrease in bone density. Some reported side effects include weight gain, fatigue and irregular bleeding.

NuvaRing

This is a thin, flexible vaginal ring that releases the hormones progestin and estrogen. It stops the ovaries from releasing eggs and thickens the cervical mucus, preventing the sperm from joining the egg. The ring is squeezed between the thumb and index finger and inserted into the vagina. The ring is worn for 3 weeks and then removed for a week to allow a menstrual cycle. Then a new ring is inserted.

Pros — The ring is very effective if used correctly. It may make menstrual cycles more regular and may reduce bleeding and cramping with monthly cycles. It may help protect against ovarian and uterine cancer, reduce ovarian cysts and reduce acne. Many insurance plans cover NuvaRing at 100%.*

Cons —The ring needs to be inserted correctly to be effective. Reported undesirable side effects include vaginal infections and irritation, vaginal discharge, weight gain, and nausea.

*The Affordable Care Act mandates that new health insurance plans offer at least one form of each of the 18 FDA- approved methods of birth control for women without a co-payment to the patient. Some existing health insurance plans were grandfathered and not required to meet this requirement. Each insurance plan is different, you should always check with your plan to determine coverage for the method you desire.

Facts & Myths about Flu Vaccinations [2021]

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 17:50:14 GMT

According to flu.gov an estimated 111 million work days are missed due to the flu each flu season. I don’t know about you, but I prefer to use my paid time off when I am feeling well. The flu shot is safe for most people, it is covered by most health insurance plans and is usually easy to find, so why not protect yourself and your loved ones?

We encourage our OB patients to receive a flu vaccination. We will be offering the vaccinations in our offices soon.

There are many myths regarding flu immunization as well as questions about who should be immunized. Below are some common questions and myths.

Is the flu vaccine safe for a pregnant woman?

According to the CDC, yes, the flu vaccine is a safe way to protect pregnant women and their developing fetus from complications of the flu, such as pneumonia. Some pregnant women are fearful of the effects of trace amounts of mercury used in a preservative in multi dose vials. Single dose vials do not need this preservative as no vaccine is left for use at a later time. We use single dose vials in our offices. Receiving the flu immunization during pregnancy also protects a newborn against the flu for the first six months after birth. You protect two immune systems for the price of one!

I got the flu from the flu vaccine.

Myth, the vaccine is made from an inactivated virus that cannot transmit infection. It takes about two weeks after immunization for the body to build up antibodies to fight the flu virus. If a person develops the flu around the time of vaccination, the person would get sick regardless of whether she was vaccinated or not. Chances are the symptoms will be less severe since the individual’s body will start building antibodies when the shot is rceived.

Can I contract the flu even though I have been immunized?

Yes you can. As mentioned above if you are coming down with the flu before or around the time you are immunized, you can still contract the virus. Researchers predict which strains of the flu virus will be most prevalent each flu season and develop vaccines to cover 3 or 4 of those strains. It would be impossible to immunize against every strain of the virus, so if an immunized individual comes in contact with a different flu virus than those covered in the vaccine, the individual may contract that uncovered virus.

I never get sick. I do not need the flu shot.

You could contract the flu, but not show symptoms and be a carrier and infect others if you are not immunized. If you are in contact with individuals with weakened immune systems, the elderly, people with asthma, etc. you should get vaccinated to protect them. But even an otherwise healthy individual can end up in the emergency room or worse after contracting the flu. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Who should not receive the flu vaccine?

Children younger than 6 months should not receive the vaccine, which is why it is important for the mother-to-be to be vaccinated during pregnancy as the infant will be covered the first 6 months after birth. If you have life-threatening allergies to any of the ingredients in the vaccine which might include, eggs, gelatin, antibiotics, etc. you should discuss the risks of vaccination with your health care provider. If you have ever had Guillain-Barre’ Syndrome consult with your physician before getting vaccinated. If you are otherwise not feeling well, discuss your symptoms with your health care practitioner before obtaining the vaccine.

Here’s to a flu free flu season! With questions or concerns, please call (817) 741-2601.

Thinking of Having a Baby? | How to Prepare

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 17:16:03 GMT

So you are considering having a baby. All of your friends are posting all their maternity or new baby pictures on Facebook, and you decide it is time to start trying. It is a life changing decision and there are many things to consider. It is important that you realize that pregnancy does not happen right away for most couples. According to most research of couples actively attempting to obtain a pregnancy, only 20-25% will be successful each month. After 6 months of trying, only 80% will have obtained a pregnancy. Current recommendations state that if you have been trying for over a year without becoming pregnant that you should see your physician (with caveats for age). That being said, since you never know when it will happen here are a few things to consider.

Start a Vitamin Regimen

First off, as soon as you start attempting to procreate, you should begin taking a prenatal vitamin. It is important that it contains at least 400mcg of Folic Acid, DHA, which is found in most prenatal vitamins is also recommended, but overall, most over the counter vitamins are basically the same. If you have questions you can always call or make an appointment with your physician.

Stop Drinking & Smoking

Second, stop drinking alcohol immediately. Fetal alcohol syndrome is the most common cause of mental retardation in the United States and no safe amount of alcohol consumption during pregnancy has been established. If you smoke cigarettes while you are attempting to obtain pregnancy this is an excellent time to stop. Women who smoke tend to have a more difficult time becoming pregnant as well as a higher risk of never becoming pregnant than non-smokers. Smoking while pregnant carries many risks to you and your baby, and the fewer cigarettes you smoke a day, the lower that risk is. Risks of smoking during pregnancy include premature delivery or having a low birth rate baby. Smoking during and after pregnancy is a risk factor of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Discuss Current Medications with a Physician

Third, if you are taking any medications regularly, you should have a discussion with your doctor about the safety of taking these during pregnancy, as well as the risks and benefits of stopping or continuing them. Do not stop medications simply because you are attempting pregnancy, always consult with your doctor first.

It is also very important to try and optimize all medical conditions. Poorly controlled blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, thyroid conditions, and many other medical conditions have adverse outcomes on pregnancy. Before attempting pregnancy do your best to get any medical conditions under optimal control. Doing so will help your pregnancy run more smoothly which will be better for both you and your future infant.

Of course, most importantly, if you have any questions or concerns always call your physician at (817) 741-2601 .

When do I need to Start Seeing an OB/GYN?

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 19:36:05 GMT

Current guidelines state that regardless of when a woman first has intercourse, she does not need a pap test until she attains the age of 21. Prior to this the guidelines were that she should be tested when she became sexually active or attained the age of 21, whichever came first. The change in guidelines has caused confusion about when testing should begin.

If a woman does not need a pap until she is 21, why should she visit the OB/GYN prior to then if she isn’t pregnant? While the overall list of important issues your OB/GYN can cover is lengthy, I will quickly touch on a few.

First, a Well Woman Visit is a great time to learn about healthy sexual relationships, regardless of whether a young woman is sexually active or not. An OB/GYN can teach about safe sex, and answer many questions she may be embarrassed to ask her parents. They can help a patient understand if she is in a safe and healthy relationship, or if her relationship is harmful. With the myriad of birth control options, the doctor can help her determine which birth control is right for her. The use of an appropriate birth control early on is a big step in avoiding unintended pregnancy. Importantly, a women’s health care provider can discuss warning signs of various sexually transmitted diseases, to help her be aware of symptoms to watch for.

Second, a physician or nurse practitioner can discuss the patient’s general health. Many aspects of our health start with habits formed from an early age and these habits tend to stick with us for a lifetime. Because of this, it is important to make lifestyle changes as early as possible. As a woman ages, she is at a high risk for bone problems, many of which can be prevented by taking the appropriate steps at a young age.

Third, many young woman have questions about their periods. Is her period normal? Is it too long, or too painful? Why is her period worse than her best friend’s? It is important to understand that all women are different when it comes to their cycles, and there is a wide range of “normal”. Hearing from a professional that her period is “normal” can be a huge relief to a young woman. The provider can also offer suggestions about regulating cycles.

This is just a brief summary of the many important things to discuss with your women’s health care provider prior to the age of needing the first pap test (and long after). Annual Well Woman Examinations provide an excellent opportunity for counseling and preventative screenings. Please remember, always contact your physician with any questions.

We are accepting new patients. Call our office at 817-741-2601 to make an appointment. We look forward to providing you with exceptional health care!

A Pregnancy Crash Course for Dads | FAQ

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 19:36:04 GMT

While women often prepare for and discuss pregnancy with their friends before, during, and after pregnancy, men often walk into a first pregnancy as clueless as T.J. Watt at a dance recital. My most important recommendation is for you to be supportive! There are actually documented scientific studies showing women who have a supportive partner have lower rates of preterm delivery and growth problems with their babies. There are many ways to be supportive, and the first step should be asking her how you can help. The second step should be following through with her requests.

How to Calculate the Due Date?

A commonly asked question is how do you calculate the due date? This is based on the woman’s last menstrual period, or an early ultrasound exam. Remember, a normal pregnancy is approximately 40 weeks after the first day of a woman’s last menstrual period.

What Happens During Each Trimester of Pregnancy?

What is going on during the first trimester? Most women will need much more rest than usual, so don’t be surprised by additional naps and earlier bed times. Many women will have intense nausea and vomiting, at all times of the day, not just in the morning, although, not all women experience this. Mood swings are very common, and not just in future moms, but future dads may experience this, too!

What should you expect in the second trimester? This is when most women feel their best during their pregnancy. Most women will start to “show” around this time, will have increased energy, and usually the nausea and vomiting is gone. Around 20 weeks (plus or minus a few), many women will start to feel the baby move, which is very exciting! Sorry dad, typically it will be much later before you feel the movement.

And what happens in the final stretch, the third trimester? Well get ready dad, this is usually when the future mom is the most uncomfortable. Very commonly, she will have difficulty sleeping as well as walking. As she wonders if she is ready for an infant, anxiety and nerves start to set in, but oftentimes, so does a new level of excitement. All of these changes in feelings are perfectly normal!

Is it OK to Have Sex While She's Pregnant?

Okay, so the most important question, right? Can we have sex during pregnancy? In short, yes. There are some conditions that your OB/GYN will recommend are unsafe to have intercourse, so if you are unsure, ASK, but generally speaking it is totally safe. Keep in mind that as your partner’s belly gets bigger, you will need to try new positions and be considerate, if intercourse is uncomfortable for your partner.

How to Prepare for Labor?

Another great question is how can YOU prepare for labor? First, learn how to get to the hospital, where it is, the labor and delivery entrance, and even take a tour, so you are comfortable with the hospital where your baby will be delivered.

The most important thing is to support your partner in any way you can, within the boundaries of her needs. At times labor is a long process, and you might be in the hospital delivery room for quite a while. Bring things to help pass the time such as games, movies, cards, or something your partner enjoys. You can also help time her contractions as well as massaging her back and shoulders to help her relax in between contractions (if this helps her relax). Once pushing starts, words of encouragement are always welcome. If you want to be involved with cutting the cord, make sure your delivering physician knows prior to delivery. As long as baby appears healthy, we are happy to accommodate this special moment! But remember, don’t be a tough guy, if you feel weak or light-headed sit down.

Secondly, make sure you have a rear facing car seat installed. Your baby cannot leave the hospital without one! Safercar.gov has many tips on picking and installing a car seat.

Additionally, yes you, dad, need to get vaccinated. If it is flu season, get your flu shot, and you also should get your Tdap vaccine at least two weeks prior to delivery. Unfortunately, your partner’s OB/GYN cannot give you the vaccinations, however, most local pharmacies offer them.

When Do We Get to Go Home?

Typically, babies are released to go home within 24-48 hours of a vaginal delivery. If a cesarean section is required, mom may need to stay a little longer for pain control.

Can I be involved in breast feeding? Well, obviously, some parts of breastfeeding can only be performed by mom. Some partners love for the dad to bring the baby to her for feeding, then he can take care of burping and changing the baby after, and then rocking the baby to sleep. However, some partners do not want you involved in this part of care. Ask your partner if she would like you to help with any of these tasks. If your partner is pumping, or bottle feeding, this is a great opportunity for you to give mom some much needed rest while you bond by bottle feeding baby.

What is Post Partum Depression?

It is very common for moms to feel sad or anxious after delivery. Mild feelings of depression or anxiety are called postpartum blues. Typically this only lasts a week or two, if the symptoms are extreme, or last longer it could be postpartum depression, which is a more serious condition. If you feel postpartum depression is occurring, it is important to contact your partner’s OB/GYN. Some signs include the blues getting worse or lasting too long, feelings of sadness which interrupt the normal routine and mom cannot care for herself or her baby, changes in appetite, decreased pleasure, and many other things. The most concerning sign would be thoughts of self-harm or suicide, which while rare, is obviously very serious. If ANY of these symptoms occur, or you are concerned as a Dad, it is okay for you to be the one to call your partner’s OB/GYN’s office!

Can We Have Sex Again After Delivery?

The primary question on your mind is….. so when can we have sex again? In general we advise no intercourse for 6 weeks after delivery….sorry, Dad.

Remember, your partner’s OB/GYN is here to help you and be a resource for you through this exciting and terrifying time!

And remember dads; you can ask questions at appointments too. As always, it is encouraged that you discuss any concerns you have with your partner’s physician. Call (817) 741-2601 with questions or concerns.

Anesthesia Choices for Vaginal Delivery

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 19:36:04 GMT

To use or not to use any form of pain control at all during a vaginal delivery is a very personal choice. At North Texas Women’s Healthcare, we encourage patients to explore their options for pain control and choose the best option for their situation.

Overall there are three broad categories.

"Natural" Delivery

The first option is to use no medication for pain. Many patients today are choosing to deliver without the assistance of any anesthesia, which we encourage as a completely acceptable option.

IV Pain Medication

Secondly, there is the option of IV pain medications. There are several IV options that each physician may choose from. They have been shown to provide some pain relief with delivery, although, a Cochrane review, (a large think tank that reviews all research), found that overall the relief was poor, and that rates of nausea and vomiting increased. For me personally, I also do not offer IV pain medications to individuals with advanced cervical dilation. The reasoning behind this is that this class of medications can decrease respiratory drive. Mom can easily overcome this reaction, however, if baby is born with the medication still in his/her system it can provide a confusing picture to the infants caregiver.

Epidural

Finally there is an epidural. With this option, a qualified Anesthesiologist will be at the hospital who will place your epidural. Currently over 60% of all women giving birth in the United States use an epidural as their choice for pain control. It is important to be aware, that to date, there is no evidence that has ever shown an epidural leading to an increased risk of a cesarean delivery.

Nitrous oxide is an option that is used rather extensively in the UK, however, the hospitals where we deliver do not currently offer this as an option.

Your choice of pain control is exactly that, YOUR CHOICE. As your physicians, we simply desire for you to be educated on the matter, and make the choice that is best suited for you and your growing family.

We know you will have many questions about the anesthesia choices and we want you to ask your physician any questions you have regarding your pain control options. It is important that you feel informed and comfortable with your decision.

Thank you for allowing us to be a part of this special time for your family.