Dr. Julie A. Bernell, MD

Dr. Julie A. Bernell, MD Obstetrician and Gynecologist

Dr. Julie A. Bernell, MD, FACOG, is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist who provides preventive, pregnancy-related, and gynecologic care for adolescents and adults. Her work includes well-woman visits, contraception counseling, prenatal care, menstrual concerns, menopause management, cervical screening, and evaluation of conditions such as uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts.

Dr. Bernell practices through Modern Women’s Center in Humble, Texas. The practice was previously known as Neoga Women’s Health and continues to provide women’s healthcare across different stages of life.

Patients may see Dr. Bernell for a routine examination, pregnancy care, abnormal bleeding, pelvic discomfort, contraception, menopausal symptoms, an abnormal Pap result, or a condition that may require a gynecologic procedure.

An appointment does not automatically lead to testing or surgery. The first step is usually to understand the symptoms, review medical history, complete an appropriate examination, and discuss the available choices.

About Dr. Julie A. Bernell

Dr. Bernell has worked in private obstetrics and gynecology practice since 1996. Her current professional biography describes care spanning adolescence, reproductive health, pregnancy, and menopause.

Her areas of care may include:

• Annual well-woman examinations
• Pap tests and cervical cancer screening
• Contraception counseling
• Prenatal care
• High-risk pregnancy monitoring
• Menstrual problems
• Heavy or irregular bleeding
• Menopause symptoms
• Uterine fibroids
• Ovarian cysts
• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Pelvic pain
• Vaginal and cervical concerns
• Gynecologic surgery assessment
• Preventive reproductive healthcare

Patients comparing professionals in this field can review other gynecology specialists listed through Doctiplus.

Education and Medical Training

Training area	Institution	Details
Undergraduate education	Tufts University	Bachelor of Science with studies in biopsychology
Medical education	Baylor College of Medicine	Doctor of Medicine, completed in 1992
Residency	Baylor College of Medicine	Obstetrics and gynecology, 1992 to 1996
Board certification	American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology	Obstetrics and gynecology
Professional designation	American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists	Fellow, FACOG

Dr. Bernell graduated from Baylor College of Medicine in 1992 and remained there for residency training in obstetrics and gynecology. Current professional records identify her as certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and as a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Obstetrics and gynecology residency prepares physicians to provide pregnancy care, manage labor and delivery, assess reproductive health concerns, treat gynecologic conditions, and perform selected surgical procedures.

Board Certification and Professional Credentials

Dr. Bernell’s credentials include:

• MD, meaning Doctor of Medicine
• Residency training in obstetrics and gynecology
• Board certification in obstetrics and gynecology
• FACOG, meaning Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
• More than three decades of experience in women’s healthcare

Board certification is different from medical licensing. A license permits a physician to practice, while board certification reflects completed specialty training and professional assessment.

Her individual National Provider Identifier is 1184627341, with obstetrics and gynecology listed as her specialty. The corresponding public record was updated in February 2026.

What an Obstetrician and Gynecologist Does

An obstetrician and gynecologist provides healthcare involving the reproductive system, pregnancy, childbirth, menstrual health, and menopause.

Patients may seek care for:

• Preventive examinations
• Pregnancy planning
• Pregnancy care
• Birth control
• Menstrual changes
• Pelvic pain
• Vaginal symptoms
• Fertility concerns
• Menopause
• Breast concerns
• Abnormal screening results
• Gynecologic conditions requiring procedures

Some patients continue seeing the same OB-GYN through several life stages. Their needs may change from contraception and pregnancy care to menstrual treatment, cancer screening, and menopause management.

Well-Woman Examinations

A well-woman visit is a preventive appointment rather than a visit for one urgent symptom.

Depending on age and medical history, it may include:

• Review of menstrual health
• Blood pressure measurement
• Medication review
• Contraception discussion
• Pregnancy planning
• Cervical screening review
• Breast health discussion
• Sexual and reproductive health assessment
• Menopause counseling
• Family medical history
• Preventive testing recommendations

A pelvic examination or Pap test is not automatically required at every annual appointment. The decision depends on age, symptoms, previous results, surgical history, and current screening guidance.

Regular visits can also provide time to discuss symptoms that may have developed gradually, such as heavier periods, pain during intercourse, urinary leakage, or changes associated with menopause. Patients can read more about the broader value of regular medical checkups.

Cervical Cancer Screening and Pap Tests

A Pap test collects cells from the cervix so they can be examined for abnormal changes. Testing for human papillomavirus may also be used as part of cervical cancer screening.

The appropriate testing schedule depends on factors such as:

• Age
• Previous Pap results
• HPV test results
• Earlier cervical procedures
• Immune-system conditions
• History of cervical disease
• Whether the cervix remains after hysterectomy

An abnormal result does not automatically mean cervical cancer is present. It may indicate that further monitoring, repeat testing, colposcopy, or a biopsy is needed.

Patients should bring earlier Pap, HPV, colposcopy, and biopsy records when changing practices or seeking another opinion.

Colposcopy and Abnormal Cervical Results

Colposcopy uses magnification to examine the cervix more closely after an abnormal screening result or another concerning finding.

During the procedure, the clinician may apply a solution that makes abnormal areas easier to see. A small tissue sample may be taken when necessary.

Possible next steps after colposcopy include:

• Continued monitoring
• Repeat Pap or HPV testing
• Cervical biopsy
• Removal of abnormal tissue
• Referral for more specialized assessment

Modern Women’s Center lists colposcopy, cervical lesion treatment, endocervical curettage, and LEEP-related care among its gynecologic services. Patients should confirm which procedures Dr. Bernell personally performs and where they are completed. Modern Women’s Center

Contraception Counseling

Birth control counseling should consider the patient’s health, preferences, pregnancy plans, menstrual symptoms, and ability to use a method consistently.

Options may include:

• Birth control pills
• Hormonal patch
• Vaginal ring
• Injection
• Intrauterine device
• Arm implant
• Barrier methods
• Permanent contraception
• Fertility-awareness methods

No method is suitable for every patient.

The discussion may consider:

• High blood pressure
• Migraine history
• Blood-clot risk
• Tobacco or nicotine use
• Medication interactions
• Breastfeeding
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Previous pregnancy complications
• Personal preferences

Patients should ask how quickly fertility may return after stopping a method and which side effects require medical review.

Pregnancy Planning

A pregnancy-planning visit can help identify health concerns before conception.

The appointment may include:

• Reviewing prescription medicines
• Discussing vitamins
• Checking vaccination history
• Reviewing diabetes or blood pressure
• Discussing earlier pregnancy complications
• Evaluating menstrual regularity
• Reviewing family health history
• Discussing genetic carrier screening
• Addressing tobacco, alcohol, or other exposures
• Planning specialist care when necessary

Patients should not stop an important prescription medicine without discussing it with the prescribing physician. Some medicines may need adjustment, while stopping others suddenly can also create risk.

Prenatal Care

Prenatal care follows the health of the pregnant patient and developing baby.

Visits may include:

• Blood pressure checks
• Weight and symptom review
• Laboratory testing
• Ultrasound planning
• Screening for gestational diabetes
• Assessment of fetal growth
• Monitoring for pregnancy complications
• Discussion of labor and delivery
• Postpartum preparation

Dr. Bernell’s current profile lists routine and high-risk pregnancy care among her services. The frequency and location of visits may change when a pregnancy requires closer monitoring or consultation with a maternal-fetal medicine specialist.

Patients can also review common high-risk pregnancy warning signs while following the specific instructions supplied by their obstetric team.

High-Risk Pregnancy Care

A pregnancy may be described as high risk when a medical condition or pregnancy-related finding increases the need for monitoring.

Examples may include:

• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Multiple pregnancy
• Placental concerns
• Previous premature birth
• Earlier pregnancy loss
• Fetal growth concerns
• Advanced maternal age
• Certain heart, kidney, or autoimmune conditions
• A history of serious pregnancy complications

High-risk care may involve additional blood testing, ultrasound, fetal monitoring, medication, or referral to maternal-fetal medicine.

The term does not mean that a serious problem will definitely occur. It means that the pregnancy may benefit from closer assessment and a more detailed care plan.

Menstrual Problems

Menstrual concerns are common reasons for an OB-GYN appointment.

Patients may seek care for:

• Heavy bleeding
• Irregular periods
• Bleeding between periods
• Painful menstruation
• Periods that stop unexpectedly
• Bleeding after intercourse
• Bleeding after menopause
• Symptoms affecting school, work, sleep, or normal activity

Evaluation may include:

• Pregnancy testing
• Blood count
• Thyroid testing
• Hormone assessment
• Pelvic examination
• Ultrasound
• Cervical testing
• Endometrial sampling
• Hysteroscopy in selected cases

Treatment depends on the cause and may involve medication, hormonal treatment, an intrauterine device, an office procedure, or surgery.

Heavy Uterine Bleeding

Heavy bleeding can lead to iron deficiency or anemia.

Possible signs include:

• Soaking through protection frequently
• Passing large clots
• Bleeding for an extended period
• Feeling weak or unusually tired
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Difficulty completing normal activities

Possible causes include fibroids, polyps, hormonal changes, pregnancy-related conditions, medication, bleeding disorders, thyroid problems, or changes in the uterine lining.

Heavy bleeding accompanied by fainting, severe weakness, pregnancy, or significant pain requires prompt assessment.

Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop within or around the uterus.

They may cause:

• Heavy periods
• Pelvic pressure
• Abdominal fullness
• Frequent urination
• Constipation
• Pain
• Fertility concerns
• Pregnancy complications
• No symptoms at all

Treatment depends on the number, size, and location of the fibroids, along with symptoms and future pregnancy plans.

Possible approaches include:

• Monitoring
• Medication
• Hormonal treatment
• Myomectomy
• Other minimally invasive treatment
• Hysterectomy

Modern Women’s Center lists open and laparoscopic myomectomy among its services. Patients should confirm which treatment options are available for their specific condition.

Ovarian Cysts

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled or partly solid structure involving an ovary.

Many cysts are related to normal ovarian function and resolve without treatment. Others need further assessment because of their size, appearance, symptoms, or changes over time.

Possible symptoms include:

• Pelvic discomfort
• Pressure
• Bloating
• Pain during intercourse
• Changes in menstruation
• Sudden one-sided pain
• No symptoms

Evaluation may include ultrasound, pregnancy testing, blood tests, or repeat imaging.

Sudden severe pelvic pain with vomiting, weakness, or fainting needs urgent assessment because ovarian twisting, cyst rupture, bleeding, or another emergency may be present.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome, commonly called PCOS, is a hormonal and metabolic condition.

Possible features include:

• Irregular or absent periods
• Acne
• Increased facial or body hair
• Difficulty becoming pregnant
• Insulin resistance
• Weight changes
• Darkened areas of skin
• Abnormal cholesterol
• Increased risk of changes in the uterine lining

Not every patient with PCOS has visible ovarian cysts.

Treatment depends on symptoms and goals. It may focus on regulating menstrual cycles, reducing uterine-lining risk, managing acne or hair growth, supporting metabolic health, or helping with pregnancy planning.

Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus.

Possible symptoms include:

• Painful periods
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Pain during intercourse
• Pain with bowel movements
• Fertility concerns
• Heavy bleeding

Pelvic pain can also come from ovarian cysts, fibroids, infection, bladder conditions, digestive disorders, muscle problems, or scar tissue from earlier surgery.

Evaluation may involve examination, ultrasound, medication trials, or laparoscopy in selected cases.

Treatment should be based on symptom severity, age, fertility plans, medical history, and how earlier treatment has worked.

Menopause Care

Menopause is reached after menstrual periods have stopped for 12 months when another cause is not responsible.

The years before menopause can involve changing hormone levels and symptoms such as:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Sleep disruption
• Vaginal dryness
• Discomfort during intercourse
• Mood changes
• Menstrual irregularity
• Reduced concentration
• Urinary symptoms

Management may include lifestyle measures, nonhormonal medicine, vaginal treatment, or systemic hormone therapy when medically appropriate.

Hormone treatment is not suitable for every patient. The decision may consider:

• Age
• Time since menopause began
• Blood-clot history
• Stroke or heart disease
• Breast or uterine cancer history
• Migraine
• Liver disease
• Severity of symptoms
• Personal preferences

Bleeding after menopause should be evaluated rather than assumed to be a normal hormonal change.

Endometrial Ablation

Endometrial ablation treats the lining of the uterus to reduce menstrual bleeding.

It may be considered for selected patients with heavy bleeding who do not plan future pregnancy.

The procedure is not a contraceptive method, and pregnancy afterward can be dangerous. Patients should discuss reliable pregnancy prevention when relevant.

Before ablation, evaluation may include:

• Pregnancy testing
• Ultrasound
• Cervical screening
• Assessment of the uterine cavity
• Sampling of the uterine lining
• Review of fibroids or polyps

Modern Women’s Center lists endometrial ablation among its gynecologic services. Suitability depends on the cause of bleeding, uterine anatomy, and individual medical history.

Hysteroscopy and Dilation and Curettage

Hysteroscopy uses a narrow camera to view the inside of the uterus.

It may help assess or treat:

• Abnormal bleeding
• Uterine polyps
• Selected fibroids
• Scar tissue
• Retained tissue
• Abnormal imaging findings

Dilation and curettage, commonly called D&C, removes or samples tissue from inside the uterus.

These procedures may be performed together, depending on the condition. Patients should ask whether the procedure is intended to diagnose a problem, treat it, or both.

Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy removes the uterus.

It may be considered for conditions such as:

• Severe fibroid symptoms
• Continuing abnormal bleeding
• Uterine prolapse
• Endometriosis or adenomyosis
• Selected precancerous changes
• Cancer
• Symptoms that have not improved with other treatment

The operation may be completed through the vagina, abdomen, laparoscopic instruments, or robotic assistance. The appropriate method depends on uterine size, diagnosis, earlier surgery, anatomy, and the surgeon’s assessment.

Patients should ask:

• Will the cervix be removed?
• Will the ovaries remain?
• How will the operation be performed?
• Are nonsurgical choices still reasonable?
• How long might recovery take?
• How could the procedure affect hormones or sexual health?

Modern Women’s Center lists hysterectomy and laparoscopic gynecologic procedures among its services. Availability and the operating surgeon should be confirmed directly.

Urinary Leakage and Pelvic Support Problems

Urinary leakage may occur during coughing, exercise, laughing, or lifting. Other patients experience a sudden urge followed by leakage.

Evaluation may consider:

• Pregnancy and delivery history
• Menopause
• Pelvic organ support
• Bladder infection
• Medication
• Fluid intake
• Pelvic floor strength
• Neurologic conditions
• Previous pelvic surgery

Treatment may include pelvic floor therapy, bladder training, medication, lifestyle changes, a supportive device, or surgery.

The practice lists colporrhaphy, colpopexy, and incontinence sling procedures among its services. These procedures address different pelvic support and urinary conditions, so a detailed evaluation is needed before treatment is selected.

Who May Benefit From Seeing Dr. Bernell

An appointment may be appropriate for patients who:

• Need a routine well-woman examination
• Need cervical screening
• Want contraception counseling
• Are planning a pregnancy
• Need prenatal care
• Have a high-risk pregnancy
• Experience irregular or heavy periods
• Have pelvic pain
• Have menopausal symptoms
• Have been diagnosed with fibroids or ovarian cysts
• Received an abnormal Pap or HPV result
• Need assessment for a gynecologic procedure
• Want another opinion before surgery

Patients searching more broadly can use Doctiplus to find doctors by specialty.

What Patients Can Expect During an Appointment

The visit normally begins with a review of symptoms, menstrual history, pregnancies, medicines, allergies, previous procedures, and current health concerns.

Dr. Bernell may ask:

• When did the symptoms begin?
• When was the last menstrual period?
• Are periods regular?
• Is bleeding unusually heavy?
• Is pelvic pain present?
• Could pregnancy be possible?
• Which birth control method is being used?
• Have abnormal Pap results occurred before?
• Has pelvic surgery been performed?
• Is there a family history of breast, ovarian, uterine, or colon cancer?
• Which medicines and supplements are being taken?

The examination depends on the reason for the appointment. It may include:

• Blood pressure and general health assessment
• Abdominal examination
• Breast examination when appropriate
• Pelvic examination
• Pap or HPV testing
• Pregnancy testing
• Urine testing
• Ultrasound planning
• Laboratory testing

The next step may involve monitoring, medication, imaging, a procedure, pregnancy follow-up, or referral to another specialist.

Preparing for the Appointment

Patients can prepare by bringing:

• A complete medication list
• Allergy information
• Menstrual dates
• Pregnancy history
• Previous Pap and HPV results
• Earlier biopsy reports
• Pelvic ultrasound or MRI findings
• Surgical reports
• Mammogram information
• Family cancer history
• Birth control information
• Insurance and referral documents
• Written questions

For abnormal bleeding, it may help to record:

• When bleeding occurs
• How long it lasts
• How frequently protection is changed
• Whether clots are present
• Whether dizziness or weakness occurs
• Whether bleeding follows intercourse
• Treatments already attempted

Questions to Ask Dr. Bernell

Patients may consider asking:

• What is the most likely cause of my symptoms?
• Are testing or imaging necessary?
• Is my cervical screening current?
• Which birth control choices fit my health?
• Does my pregnancy need specialist monitoring?
• Could fibroids or an ovarian cyst explain my symptoms?
• Are nonsurgical treatments available?
• Why is a procedure being considered?
• What are the alternatives?
• Will future pregnancy be affected?
• What recovery should I expect?
• Could my ovaries or hormones be affected?
• When should I schedule follow-up?
• Which symptoms require urgent assessment?

Practice and Appointment Information

Dr. Bernell currently practices through Modern Women’s Center, formerly known as Neoga Women’s Health.

Practice address:
18835 McKay Drive
Humble, TX 77338

Scheduling phone:
832-966-3376

The practice website also displays 281-319-4111 as an information number. Patients should confirm the correct number, office suite, and appointment time before traveling.

Current booking information identifies Dr. Bernell as accepting new patients, although appointment availability and insurance participation should be confirmed directly.

Hospital Affiliations

Current public healthcare records associate Dr. Bernell with:

• HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood
• Memorial Hermann Northeast Hospital
• TOPS Surgical Specialty Hospital

The hospital or surgical facility used may depend on the procedure, pregnancy needs, insurance network, current privileges, and facility availability. Patients should confirm where delivery or surgery would take place before scheduling care.

Language and Communication

English is confirmed in Dr. Bernell’s current appointment profile.

Some public directories also list Spanish, but patients should confirm whether Dr. Bernell, a staff member, or a qualified interpreter will be available for the full appointment in Spanish.

Patients should tell the office about hearing, mobility, communication, or accessibility needs when booking.

Insurance and Telehealth Information

The practice states that it accepts most major insurance plans. Exact participation depends on the patient’s policy, medical group, hospital, laboratory, imaging provider, and procedure.

Before scheduling, patients should ask:

• Is Dr. Bernell included in my network?
• Is a referral required?
• Is the visit preventive or problem-focused?
• Are laboratory and ultrasound services billed separately?
• Is the planned hospital in network?
• Does a procedure require prior authorization?
• Are prenatal and delivery services covered?
• Are new patients currently being scheduled?
• Is telehealth available for this appointment?
• Which records should be submitted beforehand?

Telehealth availability is not clearly confirmed in current official practice information. Patients should ask whether a virtual visit is suitable for follow-up or result review.

Pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, pregnancy concerns, breast findings, and symptoms requiring an examination usually need an in-person appointment.

When Symptoms Require Urgent Medical Care

Patients should not wait for a routine appointment when symptoms are severe or worsening quickly.

Urgent assessment may be needed for:

• Heavy vaginal bleeding with weakness or fainting
• Severe or sudden pelvic pain
• Pelvic pain with vomiting
• Bleeding during pregnancy
• Severe abdominal pain during pregnancy
• Chest pain or major breathing difficulty
• A seizure during pregnancy
• Sudden severe headache with vision changes during pregnancy
• Reduced fetal movement after movement has become established
• Fever with worsening pelvic pain
• Fainting with a possible pregnancy
• Severe symptoms after gynecologic surgery
• Heavy postoperative bleeding
• Increasing redness, drainage, or opening of an incision

Patients may review general guidance about when immediate medical attention is the right choice, but potentially life-threatening symptoms require prompt emergency assessment.