About
Dr. Barbara Jessica Sproule, 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 Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Ottawa, ON, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. Her practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe and ethical treatment. Providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Sproule addresses both routine and complex conditions with compassion and expertise. She serves women of all ages, including prenatal and postnatal patients, supporting them through pregnancy, childbirth, and beyond.
Dr. Sproule graduated with a Medical Degree from McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences in 2011. She has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) for over 8 years, since 2016. She is certified as a RCPSC Specialist, demonstrating her commitment to ongoing professional excellence and adherence to the highest standards of medical practice.
Her clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based medicine. Dr. Sproule is dedicated to promoting women’s health in Ottawa through compassionate listening, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing education. She is fluent in English and French, enabling her to connect effectively with diverse patient populations and provide culturally sensitive care.
Dr. Barbara Sproule provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:
Gynecologic Cancers and Precancerous Conditions
- Ovarian Cancer (Epithelial, Germ Cell, Stromal Tumors): Cancer that begins in the ovaries, which can be difficult to detect early and often requires specialized surgical and medical treatment.
- Endometrial Hyperplasia & Uterine (Endometrial) Cancer: Precancerous thickening of the uterine lining (endometrial hyperplasia) or cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus (endometrium).
- Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN) & Vulvar Cancer: Precancerous changes (VIN) or malignant tumors affecting the external female genitalia (vulva).
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.
- 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.
- Fallopian Tube Disorders (Blockage, Hydrosalpinx, Adhesions): Conditions affecting the fallopian tubes, such as blockages or scarring, that can prevent sperm from reaching the egg or a fertilized egg from reaching the uterus.
Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders
- Hirsutism (Excess Hair Growth) & Acne (Hormonal): Excessive growth of dark or coarse hair in a male-like pattern or persistent acne, often related to hormonal imbalances like those seen in PCOS.
- Menopause & Perimenopausal Symptoms: The natural cessation of menstruation and the preceding transitional period, often accompanied by symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular periods, excess androgen levels, and/or polycystic ovaries on ultrasound.
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. Barbara Sproule or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.
- Diagnosis & Treatment of Vaginal Infections & Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Management of conditions such as yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and screening/treatment for STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV counseling.
- External Cephalic Version (ECV) for Breech Presentation: Procedure to attempt to turn a breech baby to a head-down position before labor, if appropriate.
- Pelvic Pain Evaluation & Chronic Pelvic Pain Management: Comprehensive assessment and multidisciplinary treatment strategies for acute and chronic pelvic pain, identifying potential causes such as endometriosis, fibroids, or PID.
- Annual Gynecological Exams & Well-Woman Care: Routine check-ups including pelvic exams, clinical breast exams, preventative health screenings, and discussion of overall gynecological health.
- Myomectomy (Fibroid Removal - Laparoscopic, Hysteroscopic, Abdominal): Surgical removal of uterine fibroids while preserving the uterus, utilizing the most appropriate surgical approach.
- Pap Tests, HPV Testing & Cervical Cancer Screening (Colposcopy, LEEP): Cervical cancer screening through Pap tests and HPV testing, with follow-up diagnostic procedures like colposcopy and treatment for precancerous changes (e.g., LEEP - Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure).
- Basic Infertility Workup & Ovulation Tracking: Initial investigations into causes of infertility and guidance on tracking ovulation.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Sproule 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. Sproule practices at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, located in the Overbrook, Castle Heights, Vanier South neighborhood of Ottawa. The centre is conveniently situated near Little Italy and is easily accessible via OC Transpo, including the O-Train LRT and bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible and offers a welcoming environment for all patients. Paid parking options are available nearby to ensure easy access for those visiting for appointments.
- Are services from Dr. Sproule, 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. Sproule 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. Sproule, 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. Sproule 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. Sproule's office or your referring doctor.
- What can I expect during my first prenatal visit?
- Your first prenatal visit with Dr. Sproule is usually quite comprehensive, typically scheduled around 8-10 weeks of pregnancy. It will involve a detailed review of your medical history, your partner's medical history (if applicable), and any previous pregnancies. Dr. Sproule will likely perform a physical exam, which may include a pelvic exam, confirm your pregnancy (often with an ultrasound referral), estimate your due date, and discuss important aspects of a healthy pregnancy such as nutrition, lifestyle, prenatal vitamins, and options for genetic screening and prenatal testing. You'll also have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
- When should a teenager have her first OBGYN visit, and what does it involve?
- The first visit to an OBGYN for a teenager is often recommended between ages 13-15, or sooner if there are specific concerns like very painful periods, irregular cycles, or questions about sexual health. This initial visit may not involve a pelvic exam unless there's a specific medical reason. It's primarily an opportunity to build a rapport with Dr. Sproule, discuss normal development, menstrual health, contraception, STI prevention, and answer any questions in a confidential setting.
- What are some common gynecological surgeries Dr. Sproule might perform?
- Common gynecological surgeries include procedures like hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), oophorectomy (removal of ovaries), tubal ligation (female sterilization), D&C (dilation and curettage), endometrial ablation, and surgeries to treat conditions such as fibroids (myomectomy), endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or pelvic organ prolapse. Many of these can be performed using minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopy or hysteroscopy. Dr. Sproule will discuss if surgery is appropriate for your condition and explain the specific procedure, risks, and benefits.
Princess Margaret Cancer Centre
OPG 7-316, 745 ch. Montreal Rd, Radiation Medicine Program
Ottawa, ON K1K 0T1
Phone: (613) 741-6767 | Fax: (613) 741-4147
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Sproule 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/Sproule-Barbara-Jessica/0272965-95229