Ramos had long struggled with obesity and its consequences. When she began having complications during her pregnancy as a result of her weight, she transferred her OB care to Ashton, on the suggestion of a friend. After delivering a healthy baby girl, Ramos continued to see Ashton for gyn care. At a routine visit, after discussing the usual gyn issues, Ashton brought up the subject of Ramos' weight. "Many doctors are afraid to bring up a patient's obesity or weight problem, for fear of insulting or upsetting the patient. To me, it is a vital sign, just like blood pressure and if it is abnormal, it should be discussed."

Because of Dr. Ashton's kind and sensitive manner, Ramos felt comfortable having this discussion with her. It was at this visit that Dr. AShton recommended Ramos consider the lap band obesity surgery. "It has been clearly shown to make a permanent difference in people's health; high blood pressure normalizes, joint pain disappears, people lose significant amounts of weight." For most women, since they see only their OB-GYN as a regular doctor, their only chance to be educated by a medical professional is during this visit.

Although Ramos had always been obese, she had never before been told to consider this surgery. Since Dr. Ashton had done clinical research on Bariatric Surgery and is married to a surgeon, she is well-informed about the facts of obesity surgery. She discussed the procedure extensively with Ramos and suggested she see a bariatric surgeon whom Ashton recommended. Her involvement with helping Ramos battle her weight problem didn't stop there. She wrote letters for Ramos' insurance company, to help her get the insurance pre-certification she needed for the surgery. She called her before and after the operation to see how she was doing.

Their teamwork paid off. Ramos has had a total life transformation. She has lost over 100 pounds, has no more joint pain, high-blood pressure or sleep apnea. She can keep up with her toddler and has more energy than ever. (see photos and comments). "If Dr. Ashton had not suggested I have this surgery, hadn't helped me get insurance clearance and hadn't made me feel that she really cares about my total health and wellness, I know my life would have been seriously jeopardized." Ashton loves hearing success stories like this from her patients and encourages patients to discuss these and other health issues with their OB-GYNs, even "if you don't think it is an OB-GYN issue." Ramos wants people to know about how rewarding the process can be and how they should seek out doctors who "tell them what they need to hear, not necessarily what they want to hear!"

www.drjennifershton.com 

About Dr. Jennifer Ashton

Dr. Jennifer Ashton is a graduate of Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons, at Columbia University New York City, where she was Class President for four consecutive years. She was also the single recipient of the Bartlestone Prize in Pharmacology. Dr. Ashton practices General Obstetrics and Gynecology, specializing in Adolescent Gynecology as the founder of Hygeia Gynecology. She resides in Englewood, New Jersey with her physician husband and their two children.

Dr. Ashton can be seen regularly on the national Fox News Channel as a medical contributor. She and her husband, Robert, a renowned thoracic surgeon, make joint appearances on the network a few times each week to address timely health issues. She has been featured on TLC's A Baby Story, on PBS, quoted in many magazines and on live national radio. She has been a featured expert guest on Oprah & Friends on satellite XM radio with Dr. Mehmet Oz.

Dr. Ashton is an active member of the Englewood Community and was recently appointed to the Board of Directors on the Community Chest charitable organization. She is a frequent public speaker on topics concerning women’s health and adolescent gynecology. Dr. Ashton has received numerous awards throughout her career. She was recognized by the Girl Scout Council of Bergen County at its 2007 Women of Achievement Awards Dinner for her work with local youth.

Dr. Ashton has a book on teen physical and emotional issues expected out in 2009 and is available for speaking engagements.

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Angela Thomas
Prana Marketing