Dr. Dawn D. Black, MD

Dr. Dawn D. Black Obstetrician and Gynecologist

Dr. Dawn D. Black is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist providing preventive, pregnancy, reproductive, and gynecological care for adult women.

Her clinical work includes routine well-woman examinations, cervical cancer screening, contraception, pregnancy care, menstrual concerns, menopause management, and evaluation of conditions affecting the uterus, ovaries, cervix, vagina, and other parts of the reproductive system.

Dr. Black also has a special clinical interest in minimally invasive laparoscopic gynecological surgery. These techniques use small incisions and specialised instruments to diagnose or treat selected pelvic conditions while limiting unnecessary disruption to surrounding tissue.

She practises with OBGYN Medical Center Associates and sees patients at locations in Houston, Webster, and Angleton, Texas.

Patients comparing women’s healthcare physicians may also read about Dr. Kim Thu Chu’s obstetric and gynecological care.

Doctor Information

Name: Dr. Dawn Dickson Black, MD, FACOG
Specialty: Obstetrics and Gynecology
Board Certification: American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Undergraduate Education: University of Texas at Austin
Medical School: University of Texas Medical Branch School of Medicine
Medical Degree Completed: 1990
Residency: Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch
Residency Period: 1990 to 1994
Practice: OBGYN Medical Center Associates
Primary Location: Houston, Texas
Additional Locations: Webster and Angleton, Texas
Hospital Affiliation: The Woman’s Hospital of Texas
Professional Designation: Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Languages Listed by Current Practice: English
Virtual Visits: Available for suitable appointments
Accepting New Patients: Yes, according to the current practice profile
NPI Number: 1710980909

About Dr. Dawn D. Black

Dr. Black completed her undergraduate education at the University of Texas at Austin before earning her medical degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston.

She remained at the University of Texas Medical Branch for residency training in obstetrics and gynecology. This postgraduate education prepared her to provide care involving pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health, menstrual disorders, menopause, and medical or surgical conditions affecting the female reproductive system.

After completing residency, Dr. Black joined OBGYN Medical Center Associates. Her professional experience includes general obstetrics and gynecology, patient education, menopause management, and minimally invasive gynecological surgery.

A patient may visit Dr. Black for a routine preventive examination, pregnancy care, abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, contraception advice, menopausal symptoms, or another reproductive health concern.

Her role may include reviewing symptoms, completing an examination, ordering laboratory or imaging tests, discussing medication, and recommending an office procedure or surgery when clinically appropriate.

Obstetrics and Gynecology Services

Dr. Black may provide care involving:

• Well-woman examinations
• Pelvic examinations
• Pap tests
• HPV testing
• Cervical cancer screening
• Contraception counselling
• Pregnancy confirmation
• Prenatal care
• Labour and delivery planning
• Postpartum care
• Menstrual disorder evaluation
• Abnormal uterine bleeding
• Pelvic pain
• Uterine fibroids
• Ovarian cysts
• Endometriosis
• Menopause management
• Minimally invasive gynecological surgery

The exact assessment or treatment depends on the patient’s age, symptoms, medical history, pregnancy plans, previous test results, and personal preferences.

Well-Woman Examinations

A well-woman examination provides an opportunity to review reproductive, preventive, and general health.

The appointment may include:

• Updating the medical history
• Reviewing menstrual cycles
• Discussing current symptoms
• Measuring blood pressure
• Reviewing prescriptions and supplements
• Performing a pelvic examination when appropriate
• Assessing cervical screening needs
• Discussing breast health
• Reviewing contraception
• Discussing pregnancy plans
• Reviewing menopause symptoms

Not every patient requires every test during each visit. Recommendations should be based on age, personal risks, previous findings, and current symptoms.

Patients should mention new bleeding patterns, pelvic pressure, unusual discharge, urinary changes, breast concerns, or pain during sexual activity.

Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer screening helps identify abnormal cell changes before they develop into a more serious condition.

Screening may involve:

• A Pap test
• Human papillomavirus testing
• Combined Pap and HPV testing
• Repeat testing after an abnormal result
• Colposcopy when appropriate
• Cervical biopsy when needed

An abnormal screening result does not automatically mean cervical cancer is present.

Many abnormal results involve mild cell changes or HPV infections that may clear naturally. The recommended follow-up depends on the type of change, HPV result, age, medical history, and previous screening results.

Abnormal Pap Test Follow-Up

When cervical screening shows unusual cells, Dr. Black may recommend repeat testing or a closer examination of the cervix.

Colposcopy uses magnification to inspect the cervix. A small tissue sample may be collected from an area that appears abnormal.

Possible next steps include:

• Returning to routine screening
• Repeating the Pap or HPV test
• Continued observation
• Treating precancerous cell changes
• Referral for additional care

Patients should attend recommended follow-up appointments even when they have no symptoms. Early cervical changes often cause no noticeable warning signs.

Contraception and Family Planning

Dr. Black may help patients compare contraception according to effectiveness, convenience, possible side effects, medical history, and future pregnancy plans.

Options may include:

• Birth control pills
• Contraceptive injections
• Intrauterine devices
• Contraceptive implants
• Patches
• Vaginal rings
• Barrier methods
• Fertility-awareness approaches
• Permanent contraception

Some hormonal methods can also help manage heavy bleeding, painful periods, acne, or irregular cycles.

Before selecting a hormonal method, patients should discuss migraines, blood pressure, tobacco exposure, previous blood clots, current medicines, and family medical history.

Pregnancy Confirmation and Early Prenatal Care

Early prenatal care helps establish the stage of pregnancy and identify factors that may affect the pregnant patient or developing baby.

Dr. Black may review:

• Date of the last menstrual period
• Previous pregnancies
• Previous pregnancy losses
• Earlier cesarean deliveries
• Medical conditions
• Current prescriptions
• Family medical history
• Blood pressure
• Diabetes risks
• Thyroid conditions
• Previous reproductive procedures
• Infection risks

Laboratory testing may assess blood type, anemia, immunity, infections, and other pregnancy-related factors.

Patients should provide a complete list of prescription medicines, non-prescription products, vitamins, and supplements.

Prenatal Care

Prenatal care allows Dr. Black to monitor the health of the pregnant patient and developing baby throughout pregnancy.

Care may include:

• Routine prenatal examinations
• Blood pressure monitoring
• Laboratory testing
• Ultrasound coordination
• Fetal heartbeat assessment
• Fetal growth monitoring
• Gestational diabetes screening
• Prenatal genetic-screening discussions
• Review of pregnancy symptoms
• Labour and delivery planning

Appointments usually become more frequent as pregnancy progresses.

Additional monitoring may be recommended when the patient has an existing medical condition, an abnormal test result, or a complication requiring closer observation.

Pregnancy at Increased Medical Risk

Some pregnancies require more frequent monitoring or support from additional specialists.

Factors may include:

• High blood pressure
• Gestational diabetes
• Existing diabetes
• Thyroid disease
• Multiple pregnancy
• Previous premature birth
• Previous pregnancy complications
• Advanced maternal age
• Abnormal fetal growth
• Placental concerns
• Bleeding during pregnancy
• Previous uterine surgery

Dr. Black may coordinate laboratory testing, ultrasound, fetal monitoring, or consultation with a maternal-fetal medicine specialist.

The care plan should reflect the specific risk rather than treating every pregnancy as medically complicated.

Labour and Delivery Planning

Delivery planning may include discussion of:

• Signs of labour
• When to contact the hospital
• When hospital assessment is needed
• Pain-management options
• Induction of labour
• Vaginal delivery
• Cesarean delivery
• Fetal monitoring
• Recovery after childbirth

The most appropriate delivery approach depends on fetal position, placental location, labour progress, maternal health, previous uterine procedures, and fetal well-being.

A written birth plan may help communicate preferences, although medical circumstances can require the plan to change.

Vaginal Delivery

Vaginal delivery may be appropriate when labour is progressing safely and no condition makes cesarean delivery the better option.

Care may involve:

• Monitoring contractions
• Checking cervical change
• Assessing fetal heart rate
• Supporting pain-management choices
• Guiding pushing
• Managing the placenta after delivery
• Repairing selected birth-related tears
• Monitoring recovery

The experience and recovery differ between patients. Previous delivery history, fetal position, labour duration, and medical complications can affect the process.

Cesarean Delivery

A cesarean delivery may be recommended when vaginal birth could create additional risk for the pregnant patient or baby.

Possible reasons include:

• Abnormal fetal position
• Placental complications
• Labour that does not progress
• Signs of fetal distress
• Certain previous uterine procedures
• Umbilical-cord concerns
• Maternal medical complications
• Other urgent obstetric conditions

Recovery generally involves incision care, pain management, temporary activity restrictions, and monitoring for postoperative complications.

Postpartum Care

Postpartum appointments support physical recovery and help identify concerns that develop after childbirth.

Dr. Black may review:

• Postpartum bleeding
• Recovery after vaginal delivery
• Recovery after cesarean delivery
• Incision or tear healing
• Pelvic discomfort
• Blood pressure
• Urinary symptoms
• Return to ordinary activity
• Menstrual changes
• Contraception after pregnancy
• Breast and feeding concerns

Recovery varies according to the delivery method, pregnancy complications, sleep, medical history, and available support.

Patients should mention symptoms that are persistent, worsening, or interfering with basic daily function.

Menstrual Disorder Evaluation

Menstrual cycles can change because of hormones, pregnancy, medication, stress, uterine conditions, thyroid disease, weight changes, or the transition toward menopause.

Dr. Black may assess:

• Heavy periods
• Painful menstruation
• Irregular cycles
• Missed periods
• Bleeding between periods
• Prolonged bleeding
• Bleeding after sexual activity
• Bleeding after menopause
• Symptoms interfering with work or daily life

Evaluation may include a pregnancy test, blood testing, pelvic examination, ultrasound, cervical screening, or sampling of the uterine lining.

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

Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

Abnormal uterine bleeding describes bleeding that is heavier, longer, more frequent, or less predictable than expected.

Possible causes include:

• Hormonal changes
• Uterine fibroids
• Uterine polyps
• Thyroid disease
• Pregnancy-related conditions
• Medication effects
• Perimenopause
• Blood-clotting disorders
• Changes in the uterine lining

The evaluation may include laboratory testing, pelvic ultrasound, cervical screening, hysteroscopy, or endometrial biopsy.

Treatment should consider the diagnosis, severity of blood loss, age, medical history, and future pregnancy plans.

Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that form within or around the uterus.

They may cause:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Prolonged periods
• Pelvic pressure
• Abdominal fullness
• Painful menstruation
• Frequent urination
• Constipation
• Back discomfort
• Anemia
• Reproductive concerns

Many fibroids do not cause symptoms and may only require observation.

Treatment options may include medication, hormonal therapy, minimally invasive procedures, myomectomy, or hysterectomy. The best approach depends on fibroid size, number, location, symptoms, and pregnancy goals.

Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on or within an ovary.

Many are related to normal ovulation and disappear without treatment.

Some may cause:

• Pelvic discomfort
• Pressure
• Bloating
• Menstrual changes
• Pain during activity
• Discomfort during sexual activity

Dr. Black may use pelvic ultrasound to assess a cyst’s size, appearance, and location.

Management may include observation, repeat imaging, medication, or surgery. An operation may be considered when a cyst causes significant symptoms, continues to grow, or has unusual imaging features.

Endometriosis

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

Possible symptoms include:

• Painful periods
• Continuing pelvic pain
• Pain during sexual activity
• Digestive symptoms linked to menstruation
• Heavy bleeding
• Difficulty becoming pregnant

Evaluation may involve the symptom history, pelvic examination, imaging, and sometimes minimally invasive surgery.

Treatment may include pain medicine, hormonal therapy, laparoscopic treatment, fertility support, or a combination of approaches.

Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain may arise from reproductive, urinary, digestive, muscular, or nerve-related conditions.

Dr. Black may ask:

• When the pain began
• Whether it is constant or intermittent
• Whether it changes during menstruation
• Whether it occurs during sexual activity
• Whether bowel or urinary symptoms are present
• Whether pregnancy is possible
• Whether earlier surgery or infection occurred

Testing may include pregnancy testing, blood work, urine testing, pelvic ultrasound, or additional imaging.

A clear diagnosis is important because treatment that helps one cause of pelvic pain may not help another.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome, commonly called PCOS, is a hormonal condition that may affect ovulation, menstrual cycles, skin, hair growth, and metabolic health.

Possible features include:

• Irregular periods
• Missed periods
• Difficulty predicting ovulation
• Acne
• Increased facial or body hair
• Scalp hair thinning
• Difficulty becoming pregnant
• Insulin resistance

Treatment depends on the patient’s symptoms and reproductive goals.

Care may include cycle regulation, contraception, fertility support, metabolic screening, and treatment for skin or hair concerns.

Minimally Invasive Gynecological Surgery

Dr. Black has a special interest and extensive experience in minimally invasive laparoscopic gynecological surgery.

Laparoscopy uses a small camera and instruments inserted through small abdominal incisions.

Depending on the diagnosis, minimally invasive surgery may be considered for selected cases involving:

• Ovarian cysts
• Endometriosis
• Pelvic adhesions
• Uterine fibroids
• Abnormal bleeding
• Pelvic pain
• Removal of reproductive organs when medically indicated

Potential advantages may include smaller incisions, less postoperative discomfort, and a shorter recovery than traditional open surgery.

Not every condition or patient is suitable for a laparoscopic approach. Previous surgery, anatomy, medical health, and the complexity of the condition can affect the safest method.

Hysteroscopy

Hysteroscopy allows a physician to examine the inside of the uterus using a narrow camera placed through the cervix.

It may be used to evaluate:

• Abnormal bleeding
• Uterine polyps
• Fibroids affecting the uterine cavity
• Thickening of the uterine lining
• Certain fertility concerns
• Abnormal ultrasound findings

Selected growths may be treated during the same procedure.

The type of anaesthesia and recovery period depend on whether the examination is diagnostic or includes treatment.

Endometrial Biopsy

An endometrial biopsy collects a small sample from the lining of the uterus.

It may be considered for:

• Abnormal uterine bleeding
• Bleeding after menopause
• Thickened uterine lining
• Certain abnormal test findings
• Assessment before selected treatments

The laboratory examines the sample for hormonal changes, precancerous cells, cancer, or other abnormalities.

The result helps guide whether observation, medication, additional testing, or surgery is appropriate.

Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy is an operation to remove the uterus.

It may be considered for:

• Severe abnormal bleeding
• Symptomatic fibroids
• Continuing pelvic pain
• Uterine prolapse
• Precancerous changes
• Another condition not improving with conservative care

Before surgery, Dr. Black may discuss:

• Why the procedure is being considered
• Non-surgical alternatives
• Whether the cervix will be removed
• Whether the ovaries should remain
• The planned surgical approach
• Possible complications
• Recovery restrictions
• Effects on menstruation and fertility

Pregnancy is no longer possible after hysterectomy. This permanent effect should be discussed carefully before treatment.

Menopause Management

Menopause is the stage when menstrual periods permanently stop. Symptoms may begin earlier during perimenopause.

Dr. Black has a special clinical interest in menopause management and may help patients address:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Irregular periods
• Sleep disruption
• Vaginal dryness
• Discomfort during sexual activity
• Urinary changes
• Mood changes
• Bone-health concerns

Treatment may include practical adjustments, non-hormonal medicine, vaginal treatment, or menopausal hormone therapy when medically appropriate.

Hormonal treatment is not suitable for every patient. The decision should consider age, symptom severity, medical history, and individual risks.

Patients with pelvic-floor symptoms alongside menopause concerns may also benefit from learning about Dr. Hilaire W. Fisher’s urogynecology care.

Vaginal and Urinary Changes During Menopause

Lower hormone levels may affect tissues surrounding the vagina, bladder, and urethra.

Possible symptoms include:

• Vaginal dryness
• Burning
• Irritation
• Pain during sexual activity
• Frequent urination
• Urinary urgency
• Recurrent urinary discomfort

Treatment may include moisturisers, lubricants, local vaginal therapy, bladder-health measures, or referral for further pelvic evaluation.

Repeated urinary symptoms do not always mean that a bacterial infection is present. Urine testing may help identify the correct cause.

Bone Health

Hormonal changes after menopause may contribute to bone loss.

Dr. Black may discuss:

• Personal fracture history
• Family history of osteoporosis
• Menopause timing
• Long-term steroid use
• Nutrition
• Physical activity
• Tobacco exposure
• Bone-density testing
• Calcium and vitamin D needs
• Medication when appropriate

Bone-health recommendations should be based on individual risk rather than age alone.

Sexually Transmitted Infection Care

Sexually transmitted infections may not cause noticeable symptoms.

Testing may be considered because of:

• A new sexual partner
• Possible exposure
• Pelvic discomfort
• Unusual discharge
• Painful urination
• Bleeding after sexual activity
• Pregnancy
• Routine preventive needs

Treatment depends on the infection identified. A partner may also need testing or treatment.

Patients should complete prescribed care and attend any recommended repeat testing.

Fertility Concerns

Difficulty becoming pregnant may involve ovulation, the uterus, fallopian tubes, sperm health, age, or several factors together.

An initial evaluation may include:

• Menstrual history
• Ovulation patterns
• Previous pregnancies
• Medication review
• Pelvic examination
• Hormone testing
• Ultrasound
• Partner evaluation
• Referral to a fertility specialist

The timing of testing depends on age, cycle regularity, medical history, and how long pregnancy has been attempted.

Preparing for a Gynecology Appointment

Patients can prepare by bringing:

• A current medication list
• The date of the last menstrual period
• Previous Pap test results
• Pregnancy and delivery history
• Earlier surgical records
• Recent laboratory reports
• Ultrasound or imaging results
• A list of medicine allergies
• Notes about current symptoms
• Questions about testing or treatment

Patients experiencing abnormal bleeding may find it helpful to record when it occurs, how long it lasts, and how heavy it becomes.

Pregnant patients should bring available prenatal records, ultrasound reports, and information about all medicines and supplements.

Preparing for Gynecological Surgery

Patients approved for surgery may require medical testing and practical planning.

Preparation may include:

• Blood tests
• Urine testing
• Pregnancy testing when relevant
• Medication review
• Anaesthesia assessment
• Heart testing when appropriate
• Diabetes management
• Treatment of active infection
• Instructions about food and drink
• Transportation arrangements
• Planning for help at home

Patients should provide complete information about prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, supplements, and allergies.

Blood thinners and some diabetes medicines may require special instructions. Patients should not stop prescribed treatment without guidance.

Recovery After Gynecological Surgery

Recovery depends on the procedure, surgical approach, medical health, and whether several treatments were completed together.

Instructions may cover:

• Incision care
• Vaginal bleeding or discharge
• Pain management
• Walking
• Lifting restrictions
• Driving
• Returning to work
• Sexual activity
• Follow-up appointments

Patients should follow restrictions even when they begin to feel better because internal tissues may still be healing.

Virtual Visits

Dr. Black’s current practice profile lists virtual visits for suitable appointments.

A virtual appointment may be useful for:

• Reviewing laboratory results
• Discussing stable symptoms
• Medication follow-up
• Menopause treatment review
• Contraception discussions
• Preparing for a procedure
• Follow-up after earlier care

Pelvic examinations, cervical screening, ultrasound, and surgical procedures require an appropriate in-person setting.

The practice can determine which appointment type is most suitable.

Coordinated Women’s Healthcare

Obstetric and gynecological care may require cooperation with:

• Primary care physicians
• Maternal-fetal medicine specialists
• Urogynecologists
• Fertility specialists
• General surgeons
• Oncologists
• Radiologists
• Pathologists
• Physical therapists

Coordination can help ensure that testing, medication, pregnancy care, and surgical recommendations address the same diagnosis.

Patients researching another Houston women’s healthcare physician may also review Dr. Ivonne E. Smith’s obstetric and gynecological profile.

Patient-Centered Obstetric and Gynecological Care

Dr. Black provides obstetric and gynecological care based on each patient’s age, symptoms, pregnancy needs, medical history, screening results, and reproductive goals.

Her clinical services may include preventive examinations, cervical screening, contraception, pregnancy care, menstrual treatment, menopause management, pelvic evaluation, and minimally invasive gynecological surgery.

Patients should confirm current appointment availability, accepted insurance plans, virtual-visit eligibility, hospital arrangements, procedure locations, and referral requirements directly with OBGYN Medical Center Associates.