Essex County OB/GYN is proud to share that Beverly Hospital, home to the practice’s Beverly location, has been named one of Greater Boston’s Top Hospitals for Surgery by Boston Magazine, with...
When was the last time you reviewed your vaccine history? For many adults, vaccines feel like something that mostly happens in childhood, but your immunization needs continue to change throughout...
September is Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month and is an opportunity to learn about cancers affecting the female reproductive system, preventive care, and, most importantly, the symptoms and...
Breastfeeding can come with a lot of questions, conflicting advice, and unnecessary pressure. With National Breastfeeding Month approaching, we're clearing up some of the most common misconceptions...
If you’re in your third trimester of pregnancy, you’ve probably heard your provider mention Group B Strep screening. Hearing the words “positive test” can feel overwhelming for expecting parents,...
June 27th is National HIV Testing Day, and we want to clear up a few common myths, because stigma should never stand in the way of care. It is one of the biggest reasons people don’t get tested for...
When most people think about sun protection, they think about preventing sunburns and reducing the risk of skin cancer. While these are certainly important reasons to wear sunscreen, UV exposure can...
At Essex County OB/GYN, our goal has always been to provide thoughtful, personalized care while making the most of the time we have together. To help ensure every patient receives the attention they...
When we think about stress, we often think of it as a strictly emotional experience, but it is also deeply biological. Chronic stress impacts nearly every system in the body, including your...
At Essex County OB/GYN, we recognize that past experiences can impact how patients feel during medical visits, especially in gynecologic care. Walking into our office means walking into a safe,...
Infertility affects roughly 1 in 6 people globally. During Infertility Awareness Month, it is important to recognize both the medical and emotional realities of trying to conceive. While you may be...
STI Awareness Month is coming up, and it serves as a great reminder to prioritize your sexual health and normalize conversations surrounding it. While it may seem intimidating to talk about,...
Endometriosis is a chronic disorder where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus, causing inflammation and scar tissue. The condition can be difficult to diagnose and...
It’s hard to imagine what women’s healthcare looked like 100 years ago. While there is still plenty of work to do, the progress made over the past century has brought transformative improvements in...
Since 1964, Essex County OB/GYN has been “Caring for Generations” of women on the North Shore of Massachusetts by providing comprehensive obstetrical and gynecological care to women throughout their...
It’s completely normal to feel nervous or unsure about your first Pap smear, but it doesn’t have to be scary! At Essex County OB/GYN, we’re here to make sure you feel informed, supported, and at...
Every January, we hear a lot of the same questions and concerns from our patients, and chances are, you’ve had at least one of these too. We are answering some of the most common questions we hear...
Whether you’re ready to start trying for a baby or just beginning to think about the future, family planning is a smart way to take charge of your health and prepare your body for pregnancy. At...
As we close out 2025, we’re looking back at some of the most impactful breakthroughs in women’s health research this year. From smarter breast cancer screening to earlier detection for reproductive...
November is Prematurity Awareness Month, a time to honor the tiniest fighters and the parents who stand beside them through every challenge and milestone. At Essex County OB/GYN, we are inspired by...
November is Bladder Health Month, the perfect time to talk about something so many people experience but few talk about: urinary tract infections (UTIs). Read on to learn 7 things everyone should...
Menopause is defined as the time when the ovaries stop producing eggs, produce less estrogen and progesterone, and menstruation stops for 12 consecutive months. Most people will become menopausal...
As the seasons begin to shift, September is the perfect time to slow down, reset, and check in with yourself both physically and mentally. At Essex County OB/GYN, we’re here to support your...
I am writing this letter to let you know that I will be retiring from the practice of medicine on December 31, 2025. As many of my dear patients know, I started here in Beverly in August of 2000. I...
Breastfeeding is natural, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. For many new parents, it can come with questions, frustrations, and unexpected hurdles. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone, and you’re...
Summer is all about sunshine, beach days, and outdoor adventures, but the heat, humidity, and extra sweat can also bring a few not-so-fun surprises when it comes to vaginal health. At Essex County...
I am writing this letter to let you know that I will be retiring at the end of December 2025. Many of you are already aware of this decision. I have been in practice at Essex County OB/GYN for 35...
Heading off to college or sending your teen for the first time? Between move-in lists, dorm decor, school supplies, and class schedules, it’s easy to overlook one of the most important parts of...
Every June, Pride Month reminds us to celebrate the strength, visibility, and ongoing fight for equity of the LGBTQIA+ community. At Essex County OB/GYN, Pride is a reflection of what has always...
In case you missed it, Essex County OB/GYN opened an additional location in Haverhill last fall! This expansion has allowed the practice to reach more patients and offer high-quality, personalized...
According to the NIH, about 9% of men and about 11% of women of reproductive age in the United States have experienced fertility problems. Although your fertility journey can feel overwhelming, you...
At Essex County OB/GYN, we believe in supporting women through every chapter of life. Throughout these different stages of your life, your body is constantly evolving, and so are your health needs....
Infertility is a journey filled with questions, emotions, and uncertainties, and often, it’s a path you don’t expect to walk. In April, we recognize Infertility Awareness Week, a time to shed light...
April is STI Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well as promoting sexual health education. At Essex County OB/GYN, we recognize...
The values that have guided Essex County OB/GYN as a practice have always been clear – inclusion, acceptance, and patient-centered care. Today, we want to reaffirm to our community that our mission...
Although March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, it is always important to raise awareness of the condition to promote early diagnosis and treatment. Andrea Twomey, a Physician Assistant at Essex...
Pregnancy is a time of excitement and anticipation, but it’s also important to be aware of potential health risks, like prenatal infections. Certain infections can be passed from mother to baby,...
When choosing an OB/GYN practice, finding a team that aligns with your values, needs, and preferences can make all the difference in your care experience. Women-led OB/GYN practices offer a unique...
Pregnancy, childbirth, and parenthood should be joyful experiences, but for many Black mothers in the United States, the journey comes with unique challenges. Black mothers face higher rates of...
Contraception is used to prevent pregnancy, improve periods, and more. With so many birth control options available, it can be challenging to figure out which method is best for you. In this blog,...
Bringing a baby into the world is a life-changing experience, and while the focus often shifts to the newborn, your recovery during the postpartum period, often called the fourth trimester, is just...
Did you know gestational diabetes affects about 2-10% of pregnancies in the U.S.? This condition occurs when the body struggles to produce enough insulin to meet the extra demands of pregnancy,...
In the United States, 1 in 10 babies are born prematurely each year. During November, we celebrate Prematurity Awareness Month, a time to recognize and support the families of these children....
October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, a time dedicated to supporting and acknowledging the heartbreak and struggles of those who have experienced miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant...
This National Midwifery Week, we’re celebrating our incredible midwives who provide compassionate and expert care every day! Nurse midwifery is one of the oldest advanced-practice nursing...
Essex County OB/GYN is excited to announce the opening of its newest office location at 62 Brown Street, Suite 304, in Haverhill, MA, at the Merrimack Medical Center. The new office will open its doors in early October, offering a full range of comprehensive women’s health services, including prenatal care, gynecology, ultrasound, and postpartum support.
Hormone Replacement Therapy, or HRT, is a well-known treatment option to alleviate symptoms caused by hormonal imbalances, particularly during menopause. At Essex County OB/GYN, we understand how...
September is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Awareness Month! Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a common hormonal disorder causing enlarged ovaries and small cysts on the outer edges of the ovaries,...
The first week of August is World Breastfeeding Week and we are celebrating by sharing breastfeeding tips for new and expectant mothers! At Essex County OB/GYN we’re dedicated to making your...
Essex County OB/GYN is excited to announce our new partnership with North Shore Mother Visiting Partnership (NS MVP), a public health initiative providing FREE home visits from Public Health Nurses...
Summer weather can be challenging for anyone, but it can be especially tricky for those who are pregnant. As the temperature rises, it’s important to take extra precautions to ensure the comfort and...
At Essex County OB/GYN, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality care possible for our patients. One of the advanced procedures we offer is office-based hysteroscopy, a minimally invasive...
At Essex County OB/GYN, we are deeply committed to the care and well-being of our patients. This means we put patients first and affirm the unique worth of every individual who walks through our...
After 36 years of practice here on the North Shore, it is bittersweet for me to write this letter to inform you that I will be retiring from the practice of medicine on December 31, 2024. I am both...
May is Mental Health Awareness Month and Essex County OB/GYN is dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues and promoting mental well-being throughout your entire life. A crucial...
Essex County OB/GYN is proud to be partnered with Belle Pelvic Physical Therapy! Belle Pelvic Physical Therapy was born out of the idea of removing the stigma, misconceptions, and barriers to care...
Essex County OB/GYN is proud to be partnered with Joanne Sheridan, LMT, owner of Hands on Health Massage Therapy. Joanne is dedicated to helping clients of all ages achieve their health goals with...
March marks Endometriosis Awareness Month, a month dedicated to raising awareness of the disorder affecting millions of women worldwide, yet often goes undiagnosed or misunderstood. Endometriosis is...
Essex County OB/GYN is proud to be partnered with Enza Lilley, Birth Doula, CBE of A Mommy’s Friend Doula Services! A Mommy’s Friend offers comprehensive support services to expecting mothers. Meet...
Essex County OB/GYN is proud to be partnered with Youtopia Health and Wellness Coaching! Youtopia provides transformative wellness coaching designed exclusively for women to help rediscover...
Did you know it’s National Condom Week? Condoms have long been a tool in sexual health, protecting against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies. Many myths and...
Essex County OB/GYN stands with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) for Maternal Health Awareness Day on January 23rd. Access to maternal health care has increasingly...
Cervical cancer was once a leading cause of cancer death for women in the United States and is now largely preventable with proper screening and vaccination against HPV. During Cervical Cancer...
Explore what to expect when carrying multiples including potential complexities, challenges, and resources to guide expectant parents through their multiple pregnancy.
It can be extremely overwhelming to deal with reproductive issues, especially those that may require surgery. Luckily, years of extensive research have advanced the understanding of gynecologic...
Essex County OB/GYN is pleased to announce our new partnership with FamilyWell, a service dedicated to providing mental health care via convenient telehealth services. FamilyWell collaborates with...
Essex County OB/GYN offers all methods of contraception but most commonly patients request oral contraceptives, Nexplanon implant, or an IUD. In this blog, we will explore the pros and cons of some...
National Midwifery Week takes place in October, making it the perfect time to celebrate one of the world’s oldest professions and recognize the importance and accomplishments of our midwifery team...
October is Menopause Awareness Month, a month to come together to raise awareness of menopause, the symptoms associated with it, and the support options available to those experiencing it. We...
Since 1964, Essex County OB/GYN has been providing comprehensive reproductive health care on the North Shore of Massachusetts. From teens to young adults to midlife and beyond, we believe caring for...
September is PCOS Awareness Month! Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a very common condition impacting 8 to 13% of women worldwide and 6 to 12% (which is as many as 5 million!) in the United States. In...
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer. You can help prevent cervical cancer by having routine screening tests and follow-up treatments if needed. Watch this short video from @ACOG to learn how screening is done and what the results can mean.
Irregular periods can be a frustrating and concerning experience for many women. It’s not uncommon to experience changes in the menstrual cycle. In this blog post, we’ll explore the topic of irregular periods, including possible causes and when to seek medical advice.
If you are looking for a birth control option that is both highly effective and long-lasting, then long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) may be the perfect solution for you. At Essex County OB/GYN & Associates, we offer a range of LARC options, including intrauterine devices (IUDs) and contraceptive implants.
Join us in Celebrating Dr Melissa Sherman
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. 8 out of 10 people will contract HPV in their lifetime. For many people, the immune system will clear the body of HPV before it causes disease. However, over time, persistent HPV infections can cause genital warts and changes in cells that can lead to different types of cancers, including cervical, penile, vulvar, vaginal, anal and oropharyngeal. Fortunately, there is a vaccine available that can protect against several strains of HPV.
A Pap smear, also known as a Pap test, is a simple screening test that checks for abnormal cells in a woman’s cervix. The test is typically performed during a pelvic exam and involves collecting cells from the cervix using a small brush or spatula. These cells are then examined under a microscope to look for any abnormalities.
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. IUDs are one of the most effective forms of birth control available. The likelihood of pregnancy with a copper IUD is < 1% and with a levonorgestrel IUD is < 0.2%. Once an IUD is inserted, it is effective until it is removed - no more worrying about missing a pill, patch, or injection dose! If you are interested in learning more about how an IUD works, then this blog will give you the information you need.
Perimenopause is the transition period leading up to menopause. It typically starts about five years prior to the final menstrual flow and lasts anywhere from two to ten years. Women may experience many different symptoms during this time, including hot flashes, mood swings, vaginal dryness, weight gain, sleep disturbances, night sweats, fatigue, decreased libido, and sometimes worsening anxiety or depression.
Keeping fit and active in pregnancy is essential for your and your baby’s health.
But it’s understandable if you have questions about exercise during pregnancy, especially if you are a first-time parent.
We explain why it’s safe — and advisable — to exercise during pregnancy and offer some suggested activities to keep you fit and healthy.
If you have further questions please ask your health care provider. Additional information regarding vaccine administration and safety can be accessed at the ACOG and CDC websites below.
In our efforts to make your visit more comfortable and to minimize your wait time, our office has implemented a late arrival policy. If a patient is more than 15 minutes late for an appointment, the appointment may need to be rescheduled. This is to ensure that the patients who arrive on time do not wait longer than necessary. Patients arriving late may be given the option to wait for another appointment time on the same day only if one is available. We will do our best to accommodate late‐comers, but are committed to providing timely care to our other patients.
At ECOBGYN, we are committed to the care and well-being of our patients. We put our patients first and affirm the unique worth of each individual. Exceptional healthcare is built on a foundation of inclusion, compassion and respect for our patients and for each other. If everyone within ECOBGYN and patients reflect these standards, it will ensure compassionate, high-quality and patient-focused healthcare at all times. We are trying to meet the needs of our patients while also following safety guidelines. We would like patients to know you matter; your words matter; and your behaviors matter. We ask when you do access care, to be kind; be patient; and be understanding.
All ECOBGYN offices follow guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health for all COVID-19 and Flu practices including masking and other infection control, testing, isolation, quarantine, and vaccination.
At Essex County OB/GYN our patients have the ability to speak with their provider without having to leave home. When you need care, your ECOBGYN team may determine that a telemedicine (video or phone) visit is the safest and most appropriate method based on your medical history and current health issue. Please ensure you are signed up for Lahey MyChart to allow for video-based visits.
This is the fastest and easiest way to reach your doctor or provider for routine questions, to follow up on labs or to leave a message. Please note: The portal (email) system should not be used for urgent medical needs. Portal messages sent after 5 p.m. on Friday will not be read or responded to until Monday during business hours.