Dr. Alexandra Caroline Nevin Lam – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Toronto, ON

Dr. Alexandra Caroline Nevin Lam, 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 Brightshores Health System in Toronto, ON, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. Her practice adheres strictly to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe, ethical, and patient-centered care. Dr. Lam provides comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, with a compassionate approach tailored to each woman's unique needs. She is dedicated to supporting women of all ages, including prenatal and postnatal care, in a comforting and respectful environment.

Dr. Lam received her medical degree from the University of Toronto in 2002, establishing a strong foundation in medical knowledge and clinical skills. She has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) for over 17 years since 2007, gaining extensive experience in women's reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. She is certified as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist, affirming her expertise and commitment to ongoing professional development.

Her clinical philosophy centers on delivering patient-centered care through shared decision-making and evidence-based practices. Dr. Lam is committed to promoting women’s health and well-being in Toronto, offering a supportive environment where patients feel heard and cared for. She speaks English fluently and strives to build trusting relationships with her patients, ensuring they are well-informed and comfortable throughout their healthcare journeys.

Dr. Alexandra Lam provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:

Pelvic Floor and Urinary Disorders

• Interstitial Cystitis / Painful Bladder Syndrome (IC/PBS): A chronic condition causing bladder pressure, bladder pain, and sometimes pelvic pain, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain.
• Fecal Incontinence (Accidental Bowel Leakage): The inability to control bowel movements, leading to unexpected leakage of stool from the rectum.
• Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Frequent infections of the urinary system, requiring investigation for underlying causes and preventative strategies.

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.
• HPV Vaccination Counseling: Discussing the benefits and recommendations for the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to prevent HPV-related cancers.
• Contraception Counseling & Family Planning: Providing information and access to various methods of birth control to help individuals plan their families.

Infertility and Reproductive Health

• Female Infertility Evaluation & Initial Management: Comprehensive assessment to identify potential causes of difficulty conceiving in women and initiation of basic treatments.
• Uterine Factors Affecting Fertility (e.g., Septum, Asherman's Syndrome): Structural abnormalities or conditions of the uterus that can interfere with implantation or pregnancy maintenance.
• Ovulatory Dysfunction (e.g., Anovulation, Oligo-ovulation): Problems with ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary), such as infrequent or absent ovulation, a common cause of infertility.

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. Alexandra Lam or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• Management of Common Pregnancy Complications: Diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (hyperemesis gravidarum), gestational diabetes (in conjunction with specialists if needed), hypertensive disorders, and preterm labor risk assessment and prevention strategies.
• Tubal Ligation / Salpingectomy for Sterilization: Surgical methods for permanent female contraception, including removal of fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) which may also reduce ovarian cancer risk.
• Annual Gynecological Exams & Well-Woman Care: Routine check-ups including pelvic exams, clinical breast exams, preventative health screenings, and discussion of overall gynecological health.
• External Cephalic Version (ECV) for Breech Presentation: Procedure to attempt to turn a breech baby to a head-down position before labor, if appropriate.
• Endometrial Ablation & Resection: Minimally invasive procedures to destroy or remove the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in appropriate candidates.
• Preconception Counseling & Health Optimization: Guidance and health optimization for individuals or couples planning a pregnancy, including discussion of folic acid supplementation, chronic medical conditions, genetic carrier screening, and lifestyle factors.
• Contraceptive Counseling & Full Range Management: Comprehensive discussion and provision of various birth control methods, including oral contraceptives, patches, rings, injectables, IUD insertion/removal (hormonal and copper), and contraceptive implant insertion/removal.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Lam 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. Lam practices at Brightshores Health System, situated in the vibrant Bayview Village neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near the Distillery District and Cabbagetown, offering easy access for patients in the city. The facility is wheelchair accessible and well-equipped to serve diverse patient needs. Patients can reach the clinic via TTC, including subway, streetcar, and bus routes. Metered street parking is available nearby, providing convenient options for those driving to their appointments. The practice is committed to providing a welcoming environment with accessible facilities and flexible scheduling to accommodate busy lifestyles.

Are services from Dr. Lam, 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. Lam 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. Lam, 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. Lam 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. Lam's office or your referring doctor.

How often do I need a Pap test, and what is it for?

A Pap test (or Pap smear) is a screening procedure for cervical cancer. It checks for precancerous or cancerous cells on the cervix. Guidelines vary slightly by province but are generally recommended for women starting around age 21-25 (or once sexually active) and continuing every 2-3 years if results are normal. The frequency may change based on your age, medical history (including HPV status), and previous Pap test results. Dr. Lam will advise you on the appropriate screening schedule for your individual circumstances based on current provincial guidelines.

What are my options for pain management during labor discussed by Dr. Lam?

Dr. Lam 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. Lam during your prenatal visits.

Brightshores Health System
701 Sheppard Avenue East, Department of Diagnostic Imaging
Toronto, ON M2K 2Z3

Phone: (416) 644-1404 | Fax: (416) 644-1406

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Lam 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/Nevin-Lam-Alexandra-Caroline/0191188-77965