Our core team is composed of a board-certified gynecologist with specialty practice designation in Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology and a nurse practitioner. They work collaboratively and with colleagues to provide wellness exams as well as treat a full breadth of conditions and concerns related to pediatric and adolescent gynecology.
Stefanie Cardamone, MD, FACOG
Many are surprised to hear the words 'pediatrics' and 'gynecology' in the same sentence. In fact, gynecologic concerns can and do arise in infancy, childhood, and adolescence. While there is some overlap, the problems and needs of this population are often different from those encountered in an adult gynecology practice. In fact, many adult gynecologists do not see young adolescents and children. Similarly, many pediatricians do not feel adequately equipped to manage more complex gynecologic problems requiring medical or surgical treatment. This is where a Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecologist becomes important.
As a gynecologist who specializes in Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology (PAG), I see patients with a wide range of medical and surgical problems. Some conditions such as abnormal puberty or menstrual disorders (heavy, painful, or missing periods) can be treated with medications. Other times surgery is needed for ovarian cysts, endometriosis, or developmental abnormalities of the hymen, vagina, or uterus. I also see patients with other medical conditions that can have effects on gynecologic health, such as following treatment for cancer. This breadth of common and rare conditions is one of the things I love most about PAG.
Talking about gynecologic problems can be especially difficult, frightening or embarrassing for young patients. Evaluation requires a sensitive, age-appropriate approach individualized to each person. One of the challenging but most rewarding parts of my job is to help young people understand their bodies and to feel empowered and confident in discussing and prioritizing their reproductive health.
Jennifer Griffin, CNM, NP, MS
After graduating nursing school Jennifer completed her midwifery and women’s health clinical training at the Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms, California. She then worked in an indigent high risk population in South California before returning to New York, She joined the faculty at Stony Brook in 2002 where she has focused her care on well women. Jennifer has had a longstanding interest in the care of adolescents, contraceptive care, and diseases of the vulva/vagina. Jennifer is an expert in the care of women with HIV.