Dr. Abheha Satkunaratnam, a respected Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), focuses on empowering women through all stages of life with expert medical and surgical care, from adolescence through menopause and beyond. Practicing at the Markham Stouffville Hospital in Toronto, ON, he offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. His practice adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Satkunaratnam provides comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, ensuring women of all ages receive attentive and personalized treatment. Whether managing pregnancy, childbirth, or general gynecological health, he is dedicated to supporting women’s health and well-being.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Ottawa in 1997 and has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) for over 22 years since 2002. He is certified as a RCPSC Specialist, reflecting his commitment to maintaining high standards of clinical expertise and ongoing professional development. His extensive experience enables him to handle a wide variety of women’s health issues, including high-risk pregnancies, surgical management of gynecological conditions, and menopause care.
Dr. Satkunaratnam’s clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. He is dedicated to providing women in Toronto with compassionate, respectful, and comprehensive healthcare. Fluent in English, he strives to create a welcoming environment where patients feel empowered to discuss their health concerns openly and make informed choices about their care.
Dr. Abheha Satkunaratnam provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:
Screening and Preventative Care
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Screening & Counseling: Testing for common STIs based on risk factors and symptoms, along with counseling on prevention and safe practices.
- Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap Tests & HPV Testing): Regular screening to detect precancerous changes or cancer of the cervix, primarily through Pap tests and HPV DNA testing.
- Breast Cancer Screening Awareness & Clinical Breast Exams: Performing clinical breast exams and advising on mammography guidelines and breast self-awareness for early detection.
Pregnancy and Childbirth Related Conditions
- Routine & High-Risk Prenatal Care: Comprehensive monitoring and management throughout all stages of pregnancy, including those with increased maternal or fetal risks.
- Preterm Labor & Birth: Labor or delivery that occurs before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy, potentially leading to complications for the newborn.
- Gestational Diabetes: Diabetes that develops during pregnancy, requiring careful monitoring and management to ensure health for both mother and baby.
Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) & Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): A collection of emotional and physical symptoms that occur in the one to two weeks before a woman's period, with PMDD being a more severe, debilitating form.
- Thyroid Disorders affecting Gynecologic Health: Conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism that can impact menstrual cycles, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes.
- Hyperprolactinemia: Elevated levels of prolactin in the blood, which can interfere with menstruation and fertility.
This list highlights some common conditions managed within Obstetrics and Gynecology and is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific health concerns, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Abheha Satkunaratnam or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.
- External Cephalic Version (ECV) for Breech Presentation: Procedure to attempt to turn a breech baby to a head-down position before labor, if appropriate.
- Postpartum Care & Follow-up: Medical follow-up and support for mothers in the weeks following childbirth, addressing physical recovery, incision care (if applicable), breastfeeding support, contraception planning, and screening for postpartum mood disorders.
- Myomectomy (Fibroid Removal - Laparoscopic, Hysteroscopic, Abdominal): Surgical removal of uterine fibroids while preserving the uterus, utilizing the most appropriate surgical approach.
- Endometrial Biopsy: Office procedure to take a small sample of the uterine lining (endometrium) for diagnostic purposes, often for abnormal bleeding or suspected abnormalities.
- Endometrial Ablation & Resection: Minimally invasive procedures to destroy or remove the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in appropriate candidates.
- Oophorectomy / Salpingo-oophorectomy (Laparoscopic or Open): Surgical removal of one or both ovaries, and potentially fallopian tubes, often for cysts, tumors, endometriosis, or cancer risk reduction.
- Menopause & Perimenopause Symptom Management: Personalized guidance and treatment options for symptoms associated with menopause, including hot flashes, vaginal dryness, sleep issues, and discussion of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and non-hormonal alternatives.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Satkunaratnam provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and surgical options tailored to individual patient needs within women's health, pregnancy, and childbirth. Specific services offered can be confirmed by contacting the clinic.
All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). A referral may be required for insured services.
Dr. Abheha Satkunaratnam practices at the Markham Stouffville Hospital located in the Bayview Village neighborhood of Toronto. The hospital is conveniently situated near the vibrant areas of Little Italy and the MaRS Discovery District, making it accessible for residents and visitors alike. Easily reachable via TTC, including Subway, Streetcar, and Bus routes, the hospital offers excellent public transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are available nearby, providing convenient parking solutions for those coming by car. Whether for routine obstetric or gynecological care, or specialized consultations, Dr. Satkunaratnam's location is designed to serve the diverse needs of Toronto's women’s health community.
- Are services from Dr. Satkunaratnam, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Medically necessary consultations, prenatal care, delivery, gynecological surgeries, and diagnostic procedures performed by a licensed Obstetrician and Gynecologist like Dr. Satkunaratnam are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when you have a valid referral from your family doctor or another referring physician. Some elective procedures, certain fertility treatments, or non-medically indicated services may not be covered. It's always recommended to confirm specific coverage details with Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) or the clinic.
- Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Satkunaratnam, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist?
- Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Obstetrician and Gynecologist like Dr. Satkunaratnam for most consultations and treatments. This ensures coordinated care. Some specific services or clinics (e.g., some sexual health or contraception clinics) might have different access pathways, but for ongoing obstetrical or gynecological care, a referral is standard. Please check with Dr. Satkunaratnam's office or your referring doctor.
- What are my options for pain management during labor discussed by Dr. Satkunaratnam?
- Dr. Satkunaratnam will discuss various pain relief options for labor, which can range from non-medical methods (like breathing techniques, movement, massage, hydrotherapy if available) to medical options such as nitrous oxide, narcotic pain medication, and epidural anesthesia. The choice depends on your preferences, medical condition, and the progress of your labor. It's a good idea to discuss your pain management plan with Dr. Satkunaratnam during your prenatal visits.
- I have uterine fibroids. What treatment options might Dr. Satkunaratnam suggest?
- Treatment for uterine fibroids depends on their size, number, location, and the severity of your symptoms (like heavy bleeding or pain), as well as your reproductive goals. Options range from watchful waiting for asymptomatic fibroids, to medications (hormonal therapies to manage symptoms), to minimally invasive procedures (like uterine artery embolization - often by interventional radiology), or surgical removal of fibroids (myomectomy) or the uterus (hysterectomy). Dr. Satkunaratnam will help you decide the best course of action.
Markham Stouffville Hospital
1110 Sheppard Avenue East, Department of Diagnostic Imaging
Toronto, ON M2K 2W1
Phone: (416) 512-2578 | Fax: (416) 850-0730
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Satkunaratnam is a licensed Obstetrician and Gynecologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from your family physician or another qualified healthcare provider is typically required for provincially insured consultations and treatments.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Satkunaratnam-Abheha/0139245-71197