Harris & Smith OB-GYN at Patterson Place

As your gynecologists, we offer a full range of gynecological care -- from annual return visits to diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the female reproductive system -- throughout your childbearing years and beyond.

Your routine gynecological care may include:

• A physical exam
• Annual screenings, including a breast exam, Pap test, and HPV test to screen for cervical cancer
• Birth control counseling (placement of any contraceptive implants, such as IUDs, occurs at a follow-up visit)
• Sexually transmitted disease screenings (as appropriate)

We diagnose and treat women who experience abnormal uterine bleeding, fibroids, endometriosis, uterine abnormalities, ovarian cysts, urinary tract infections, and symptoms of menopause.

If abnormal cells are identified through your Pap test, we may recommend you undergo one of the following procedures in our office:

• Colposcopy. Examines your cervix, vagina, or vulva for precancerous changes.
• LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision procedure). Removes abnormal cervical cells.

If you experience abnormal bleeding, we may perform:

• Hysteroscopy to diagnose and treat the causes of abnormal bleeding
• Endometrial ablation to remove the uterine lining and stop heavy menstrual bleeding

Prenatal Care

If you are already pregnant, we can provide prenatal care during your pregnancy to prepare you for delivery. 

During your first pregnancy visit, we will confirm your pregnancy test results and counsel you on how to take care of yourself as your baby grows. That includes nutrition advice and information on which medications are safe to take during pregnancy.

We perform first-trimester sonograms and help you develop your birth plan, whether that means planning for a natural birth or including the use of medications and pain-relief during your delivery.

We also take care of women with high-risk pregnancies and partner with specialists who can help ensure you have a healthy, safe delivery.

Our obstetricians and certified nurse midwives deliver babies at The Birth Place at Duke Regional Hospital.

Planning Pregnancy/Fertility Concerns

If you are planning to become pregnant or are having difficulty getting pregnant, our obstetricians can identify medical issues that can prevent conception. If the problem is more complex, we can refer you to the Duke Fertility Center to pinpoint the cause of infertility and offer appropriate treatment options.