Pulse check with Dr. Jessica Lemmons

A Q&A highlighting the latest health issues in the field of obstetrics-gynecology, plus Dr. Lemmons' top tips for women when it comes to their medical care

~Name/position

Dr. Jessica HeiRonimus Lemmons, physician at Cape Care for Women.

~Hometown

Sikeston, Mo.

~City of residence

Cape Girardeau

~Family

Married with two children, ages 1 and 2

~Education

I went to school at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, then did my residency in Knoxville, Tenn. We have been back here for three years.

~What do you love about the field of obstetrics and gynecology?

I like taking care of a wide range of ages. I get to take care of women in their teens, through their deliveries, then after. So it is a wide range of problems.

~How is this area of medical care changing?

We are finding more and more ways to do minimally invasive surgery. There have been a lot of advances in minimally invasive tools, like the Da Vinci robot. Ways of doing what would have traditionally required large incisions, now can be done through tiny millimeter-size incisions.

~What's the No. 1 question you hear from women?

During pregnancy women are, for the most part, just concerned that the baby is OK; always wanting to know what is the best thing for the baby. In regards to gynecology questions, most women are concerned about their overall health. What screening labs do I need? When should I get my first mammogram? There are lots of varying opinions out there and sometimes it can be hard to determine what is necessary and when.

~How do you address these concerns?

In regards to pregnancy, I encourage women to come in for preconception counseling so that we may review pregnancy, screening labs, any preexisting conditions, what to expect, safe medications. In regards to gynecology, I strongly recommend that no matter what age, women need an annual exam. Depending on their age, different recommendations are reviewed.

~What are your top tips for women when it comes to their medical care?

Be proactive. Ask questions. Take charge of your health!