Traci Desplinter, MD is an Obstetrician/Gynecologist practicing at Houston Methodist Obstetrics and Gynecology Associates in Houston, TX. She is a trusted local provider registered with The Texas Medical Board, practicing under the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Physicians - Medical Practice Act). Dr. Desplinter is dedicated to providing comprehensive Obstetric and Gynecologic care, focusing on the full spectrum of women's reproductive health needs. Obstetrician/Gynecologists (OB/GYNs) are the primary healthcare specialists for women's reproductive health, providing gynecological care (routine exams, contraception, menopause management, etc.) and obstetrical care (pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum), often partnering with primary care physicians to ensure comprehensive patient well-being. She serves patients from adolescence through menopause and beyond.
Dr. Desplinter, an obstetrician gynecologist in Houston, TX, has over 25 years of experience in the medical field. She graduated from Texas Technical University in 1997 and is affiliated with Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital. With over 25 years of dedicated experience, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and care to her patients. Dr. Desplinter is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. She is currently welcoming new patients and telehealth appointments. Please call (281) 737-0100 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Desplinter provides consultations primarily in English.
A strong patient-provider partnership is the foundation of effective healthcare. Dr. Desplinter is committed to being a partner in your health journey, focusing on practical strategies to protect your health and well-being.
Dr. Desplinter's patient-centered approach to obstetric and gynecologic care prioritizes open communication and a thorough understanding of each patient's individual needs. She provides comprehensive care, encompassing routine gynecological exams, contraception counseling, and management of conditions like menopause, as well as pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum support. Dr. Desplinter collaborates closely with primary care physicians to ensure holistic and coordinated care, ultimately empowering patients to make informed decisions about their health.
By working together, you and Dr. Desplinter can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Also Accepts These Carriers
- BestChoice PPO
- Blue Card PPO
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
- Blue Essentials HMO
- Choice Care Network PPO
- Choice Care PPO
- Choice POS
- Choice Plus POS
- Choice Plus POS II
- Cigna
- Cigna PPO
- Curative
- Curative EPO
- Curative PPO
- Curative PPO Plus
- Elect Choice (Open Access) EPO
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO
- HMO Premier HMO
- Humana
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS
- Medica Choice
- National POS
- Navigate HMO
- Navigate POS
- Nexus Open Access
- Open Access Plus
- Open Choice PPO
- Options PPO
- Preferred PPO
- Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
- SureFit Houston
- UnitedHealthCare
As your primary healthcare provider, Dr. Desplinter offers expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of common health conditions. Common areas of focus include:
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus): Your OB/GYN is key to managing HPV, a virus that can cause cervical cancer and other health concerns, by providing regular screenings and guiding you on preventative care.
- Acute Cervicitis: If you have acute cervicitis, an infection of the cervix, your OB/GYN will provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend a treatment plan to help clear the infection and reduce symptoms.
- Cervicitis: Cervicitis is an inflammation of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus, often caused by infection, and your OB/GYN can diagnose and treat it with antibiotics or other appropriate methods.
- Breech Position: A breech baby is positioned feet or bottom first for delivery, a situation your OB/GYN will manage to ensure a safe birth.
- Gonorrhea Infections: Your OB/GYN is the right doctor to see if you're experiencing symptoms of gonorrhea, a common STI, for diagnosis and treatment.
- Pap Smear Abnormalities: Abnormal cells detected during a Pap smear require follow-up with an OB/GYN to diagnose the cause and develop a treatment plan, if necessary.
- Menstrual Disorders: If your menstrual cycle is causing you problems whether it's too heavy, too light, too painful, or just unpredictable an OB/GYN can help you find relief and effective management strategies.
- Menopausal and Postmenopausal Disorders: Menopausal and postmenopausal disorders are health problems that can occur during and after menopause, and an OB/GYN can help manage symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, and vaginal dryness.
- Breast Lump: OB/GYNs are trained to detect and manage breast lumps; they can explain the next steps, offer reassurance, and coordinate your care with other specialists if necessary.
- Maternal Anemia: Maternal anemia is a condition where a pregnant woman doesn't have enough healthy red blood cells to carry sufficient oxygen to her baby, and OB/GYNs monitor and treat this to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
- Vaginal and Pelvic Prolapse: Pelvic organ prolapse is a condition where organs such as the bladder or rectum descend into the vagina; your OB/GYN can assess your condition and recommend appropriate care.
- Vaginitis or Vaginosis: Vaginitis and vaginosis are infections or imbalances of the vagina that cause irritation, discharge, and sometimes odor, and an OB/GYN can diagnose and treat these conditions.
This list represents some of the common conditions treated. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional.
To provide comprehensive and patient-centered care, Dr. Desplinter offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and treat various health concerns:
- Menopause Evaluation and Treatment: This service assesses your menopausal symptoms and develops a personalized plan to alleviate discomfort and improve your well-being during menopause.
- Fetal Cardiac Screening: Fetal cardiac screening helps identify heart defects or abnormalities in your unborn baby's heart.
- Birth Control: Birth control can help regulate periods and reduce menstrual symptoms.
- Vaginosis Screening: Vaginosis screening is a quick check-up that can help determine if you have an infection needing treatment and to prevent future issues.
- Destruction or Excision of Lesion of Cervix (incl. LEEP): A LEEP or similar procedure is used to take away abnormal cells from the cervix that might be precancerous.
- Vaginal Delivery and VBAC: Vaginal delivery is a common and often preferred method of childbirth, aiming for a safe and natural birth experience.
- STD Screening: Regular STD screenings are important for preventing the spread of infections and protecting your sexual health.
- Pregnancy Non-Stress Test: During a non-stress test, your baby's heartbeat is monitored to evaluate its response to movement, helping doctors assess its health.
- Pregnancy Test: A pregnancy test detects the presence of a pregnancy hormone in your urine or blood.
- Destruction or Excision of Vaginal Lesions: Vaginal lesions (abnormal areas) are surgically removed or destroyed to improve health and prevent complications.
- Fetal Cardiac Monitoring: This non-invasive procedure uses sensors to monitor your baby's heart rate, providing important information about their health throughout pregnancy and labor.
- Vaginal Birth After Cesarean Delivery (VBAC): VBAC allows women who've had a C-section to try delivering their next baby vaginally.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for their professional license in Texas.
Dr. Desplinter is dedicated to partnering with patients to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how proactive care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- By diligently following a personalized care plan, a patient successfully managed their HPV, ensuring regular screenings and preventative care, leading to a healthier future.
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and treatment plan, the patient successfully managed their acute cervicitis, experiencing a significant reduction in discomfort and a return to their normal activities.
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and treatment plan for cervicitis, a patient felt significant relief from their symptoms, and was able to return to their normal activities without discomfort.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors. She will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Houston Methodist Obstetrics and Gynecology Associates
18220 State Highway 249 Ste 475, Houston, TX, 77070
Phone: (281) 737-0100
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- TEXAS TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY (Medical School) - 1997
Here are answers to some common questions about receiving Obstetric and Gynecologic care with Dr. Desplinter:
- What is the difference between an Obstetrician and a Gynecologist?
- An OB/GYN, like Dr. Desplinter, is trained in both obstetrics and gynecology. A gynecologist specializes in the overall health of the female reproductive system, including annual exams, infections, and contraception. An obstetrician specializes in pregnancy, labor, and childbirth. Most OB/GYNs provide care for women throughout their lives.
- At what age should I (or my daughter) have my first gynecologist visit?
- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends a first visit between the ages of 13 and 15. This first visit is often a conversation to establish a relationship and discuss healthy habits. A pelvic exam is not typically needed unless there is a specific concern.
- I have very painful and heavy periods. Is that normal?
- Experiencing painful and heavy periods is something we take very seriously. While some cramping is common, severe pain or excessive bleeding that interferes with your daily life is not normal and should be evaluated. These symptoms can sometimes be signs of treatable conditions like endometriosis or fibroids. Dr. Desplinter can diagnose the cause and offer solutions.
- How often do I need a Pap smear?
- Pap smear guidelines have changed. For most women, a Pap test is recommended every 3 years for ages 21-29. For women ages 30-65, the preferred approach is a Pap test combined with an HPV test every 5 years. Dr. Desplinter will advise on a personalized schedule based on your health history.
- What is the difference between 3D/4D ultrasound and the regular medical ultrasound?
- Standard 2D ultrasound is the primary tool used to assess fetal growth, anatomy, and well-being. 3D/4D ultrasound provides detailed, photo-like images for keepsake purposes but is not typically used for medical diagnosis. These images are not used in place of the standard 2D ultrasound.
- I'm approaching menopause. What kind of care do you provide for this stage?
- Dr. Desplinter provides comprehensive care for perimenopause and menopause, managing symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness, discussing HRT risks and benefits, and performing screenings for bone density and heart health.
- I'm pregnant. When should I schedule my first prenatal appointment?
- Call our office as soon as you have a positive home pregnancy test. Your first prenatal appointment is typically scheduled for around 8 weeks after your last menstrual period. This visit is important for confirming the pregnancy, determining a due date, and planning for a healthy pregnancy.
- My partner and I are having trouble getting pregnant. When should we see a doctor?
- Couples should generally seek a fertility evaluation if they have not conceived after one year of trying (if the woman is under 35) or after six months (if the woman is 35 or older). Dr. Desplinter can perform an initial workup and discuss next steps or referral to a fertility specialist.
Houston Methodist Obstetrics and Gynecology Associates
18220 State Highway 249 Ste 475
Houston TX 77070
Phone: (281) 737-0100
Traci Desplinter, MD is regulated by the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Physicians - Medical Practice Act) in Texas and is licensed by The Texas Medical Board.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1912956012
Registration can typically be verified through The Texas Medical Board website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by kellysearch.com, is for informational purposes to help you connect with local healthcare providers. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the provider named. Healthcare providers like Dr. Traci Desplinter are trained to manage a wide range of health concerns. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.