Uvaldo Cantu, MD is a Obstetrician/Gynecologist practicing at RGV Women's Health Center in Harlingen, TX. He is a registered physician with the Texas Medical Board and practices under the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Physicians - Medical Practice Act). Dr. Cantu is dedicated to providing comprehensive obstetric and gynecologic care, encompassing a wide range of services for women's 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. He serves patients from adolescence through menopause and beyond. Dr. Cantu is currently welcoming new patients; please call (956) 425-4901 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Cantu, Jr. has a long-standing reputation in the community for compassionate and dedicated care. He is board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology, a member of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and the American College of Surgeons. He earned his bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University and completed rigorous medical training from recognized institutions, followed by residency training in Obstetrics/Gynecology at Bronx Municipal Hospital Center. His commitment to patient well-being is evident in his board certification in Obstetrics & Gynecology by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology. He understands the importance of taking the time to understand each patient's unique needs and is devoted to ensuring the longevity of patients' health while developing long-lasting relationships with them. Dr. Uvaldo Cantu offers consultations in Spanish.
A strong patient-provider partnership is the foundation of effective healthcare. Dr. Cantu is committed to being a partner in your health journey, focusing on practical strategies to protect your health and well-being.
Dr. Cantu's approach to patient care is deeply patient-centered, emphasizing open communication and a collaborative partnership. He provides comprehensive obstetric and gynecologic care, encompassing routine gynecological exams, contraception management, and the full spectrum of pregnancy and postpartum support. His dedication to evidence-based medicine and personalized treatment plans ensures that every patient receives tailored care, working in close coordination with other healthcare providers when necessary to optimize overall well-being.
By working together, you and Dr. Cantu can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Cigna
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Aetna
- Anthem
- Blue Advantage HMO
- Blue Card PPO
- Blue Choice
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Choice Plus POS II
- Curative
- Curative EPO
- Curative PPO
- Curative PPO Plus
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO
- HealthyBlue 2.0
- Humana
- MultiPlan
- MultiPlan PPO
- National (BlueCard) PPO
- Preferred PPO
As your primary healthcare provider, Dr. Cantu offers expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of common health conditions. Common areas of focus include:
- Uterine Prolapse: Uterine prolapse is when the uterus slips down into the vagina, sometimes causing discomfort or pressure.
- Female Infertility: Female infertility is the inability to get pregnant after one year of trying, and OB/GYNs provide comprehensive evaluations and treatments to help couples conceive.
- Uterine Fibroids: OB/GYNs diagnose and treat uterine fibroids, offering various options like medication, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery depending on the severity and symptoms.
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections spread through sexual contact, and OB/GYNs diagnose and treat these infections, offering testing and appropriate medications.
- Ovarian Cancer: Ovarian cancer is a disease where cancerous cells form in the ovaries, and OB/GYNs play a key role in its diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care.
- Amenorrhea: An OB/GYN is the right doctor to see if you're experiencing amenorrhea, as they can identify underlying medical issues and offer solutions.
- Gestational Diabetes: During pregnancy, some women develop gestational diabetes, a temporary condition where their bodies don't use insulin effectively; your OB/GYN can provide care and guidance to manage this.
- Vaginal Prolapse: Vaginal prolapse occurs when pelvic floor muscles weaken, allowing the uterus, bladder, or rectum to push into the vagina; your OB/GYN can offer various treatments.
- Vaginal and Pelvic Prolapse: Your OB/GYN can help manage vaginal and pelvic prolapse, a condition where organs in your pelvis slip down and out of place, often causing discomfort or symptoms.
- Acute Vaginitis: If you experience sudden vaginal irritation, burning, or unusual discharge, it could be acute vaginitisyour OB/GYN can help identify the cause and provide effective treatment.
- Preeclampsia: Preeclampsia affects pregnant women by raising blood pressure and impacting organ function; your OB/GYN is crucial for diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment.
- Breast Cancer: While not directly treating breast cancer, OB/GYNs often detect early signs through regular exams, enabling early diagnosis and potentially improving treatment outcomes.
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. Cantu offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and treat various health concerns:
- Ovarian Cancer Screening: Ovarian cancer screening uses tests to check for early signs of ovarian cancer, even before symptoms appear.
- Destruction or Excision of Vaginal Lesions: This procedure removes abnormal tissue or growths found in the vagina.
- Salpingo Oopherectomy: If you have a high risk of ovarian cancer or other gynecological conditions, your doctor might recommend a salpingo-oophorectomy.
- Open Hysterectomy: Open hysterectomy is a type of surgery that removes the entire uterus via an abdominal incision; it is a treatment for various uterine diseases and cancers.
- Human Papillomavirus DNA Testing: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) DNA testing checks for the presence of HPV, a common virus linked to cervical cancer and other health issues.
- Intrauterine Device (IUD) Placement: An IUD is a long-acting, reversible contraceptive placed in the uterus by a doctor to prevent unwanted pregnancies.
- Amniocentesis: During amniocentesis, a needle is gently inserted into the pregnant belly to collect fluid that surrounds the baby, helping diagnose potential health problems.
- Fetal Cardiac Screening: This test uses sound waves to create images of your baby's heart, allowing doctors to detect any potential problems early on.
- First Trimester Screening: During your first trimester, this screening uses blood tests and an ultrasound to estimate the chances of chromosomal abnormalities in your developing baby.
- C-Section: C-sections are performed to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby during childbirth.
- 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.
- Gynecologic Cancer Screening: Regular gynecologic cancer screenings can help prevent deaths from these cancers by catching them in their early stages.
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. Cantu 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:
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and personalized treatment plan, a patient successfully managed their uterine prolapse, experiencing significant relief from discomfort and improved quality of life.
- After receiving a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan, a patient successfully managed their female infertility and achieved a long-awaited pregnancy.
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and personalized treatment plan, a patient successfully managed their uterine fibroids, experiencing reduced pain and improved overall well-being.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
RGV Women's Health Center
2230 Haine Dr, Harlingen, TX, 78550
Phone: (956) 425-4901
View on Map - RGV Women's Health Center
801 S Airport Dr, Weslaco, TX, 78596
Phone: (956) 968-3230
View on Map
- Bronx Municipal Hospital Center (Residency Hospital)
- American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology (Obstetrics & Gynecology)
Here are answers to some common questions about receiving Obstetric and Gynecologic care with Dr. Cantu:
- What is the difference between an Obstetrician and a Gynecologist?
- An OB/GYN, like Dr. Cantu, is a medical doctor specializing in both obstetrics (pregnancy, labor, and childbirth) and gynecology (overall female reproductive health, including annual exams, infections, and contraception).
- At what age should I (or my daughter) have my first gynecologist visit?
- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends a first gynecologist 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 or problem.
- I'm approaching menopause. What kind of care do you provide for this stage?
- Dr. Cantu 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.
- How often do I need a Pap smear?
- Pap smear guidelines have changed. For most women ages 21-29, a Pap test is recommended every 3 years. For women ages 30-65, a Pap test combined with an HPV test is preferred every 5 years. Dr. Cantu will advise on a personalized schedule based on your health history.
- 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. Cantu can perform an initial workup and discuss next steps or referral to a fertility specialist.
- I have very painful and heavy periods. Is that normal?
- Experiencing painful and heavy periods is a concern, and it's important to have it evaluated. While some cramping is common, severe pain or excessive bleeding that interferes with your daily life is not normal. Dr. Cantu can diagnose the cause, such as endometriosis or fibroids, and offer appropriate solutions.
- Do you perform gynecological surgery, like a hysterectomy?
- Dr. Cantu performs a wide range of gynecological surgeries, including hysterectomies, myomectomies, and endometrial ablations. She is skilled in minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy and robotic surgery, which can result in quicker recovery times.
- What is the HPV vaccine and who should get it?
- The HPV vaccine is a safe and effective vaccine that protects against the human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes most cases of cervical cancer and genital warts. It's recommended for all preteens, both boys and girls, at age 11 or 12, and can be given to young adults as well.
RGV Women's Health Center
2230 Haine Dr
Harlingen TX 78550
Phone: (956) 425-4901
Uvaldo Cantu, 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): 1376535203
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. Uvaldo Cantu 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.