About
Dr. Brian David Harrington, 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 South Simcoe Medical in Peterborough, ON, he offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. His approach emphasizes patient-centered care within the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, Dr. Harrington is committed to supporting women's health needs at every age. Women of all ages, including those seeking prenatal and postnatal care, can rely on his expertise for their reproductive health concerns.
Dr. Harrington graduated with a Medical Degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in 2001 in Canada. He has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) since 2006, accumulating over 18 years of experience. He is certified as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist, maintaining a high standard of professional competence and ongoing education to ensure the best possible care for his patients.
With a strong commitment to patient-centered care, Dr. Harrington values shared decision-making and evidence-based practices. He is dedicated to addressing women's health concerns in Peterborough with compassion and expertise. Fluent in English, he strives to create a welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their health. His focus is on empowering women through personalized, respectful, and informed care, supporting them through every stage of reproductive health and wellness.
Dr. Brian Harrington 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.
- Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Frequent infections of the urinary system, requiring investigation for underlying causes and preventative strategies.
- Fecal Incontinence (Accidental Bowel Leakage): The inability to control bowel movements, leading to unexpected leakage of stool from the rectum.
Infertility and Reproductive Health
- 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.
- 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.
- Female Infertility Evaluation & Initial Management: Comprehensive assessment to identify potential causes of difficulty conceiving in women and initiation of basic treatments.
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.
- Vaginal Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VAIN) & Vaginal Cancer: Precancerous changes (VAIN) or rare cancers affecting the vagina.
- Cervical Dysplasia (CIN) & Cervical Cancer: Precancerous changes (Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia) or malignant tumors of the cervix, the lowermost part of the uterus, often linked to HPV infection.
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. Brian Harrington or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.
- Laparoscopic Surgery for Endometriosis & Ovarian Cysts (Excision/Ablation): Minimally invasive surgical techniques for diagnosing and treating endometriosis implants (excision or ablation) and removing benign ovarian cysts.
- 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.
- 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.
- External Cephalic Version (ECV) for Breech Presentation: Procedure to attempt to turn a breech baby to a head-down position before labor, if appropriate.
- Comprehensive Prenatal Care & Risk Assessment: Regular check-ups, monitoring, and guidance throughout pregnancy to ensure maternal and fetal well-being, including initial risk assessment, ultrasound referrals, genetic screening discussions, and prenatal testing.
- Annual Gynecological Exams & Well-Woman Care: Routine check-ups including pelvic exams, clinical breast exams, preventative health screenings, and discussion of overall gynecological health.
- Management of Menstrual Disorders & Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Diagnosis and treatment for conditions like heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), irregular periods, painful periods (dysmenorrhea), amenorrhea (absence of periods), and premenstrual syndrome (PMS)/PMDD.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Harrington 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. Harrington practices at South Simcoe Medical, located in the vibrant Downtown Peterborough, Central neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near Peterborough City Hall and Peterborough Square Mall, making it easy for patients to access. Public transportation options are available via Peterborough Transit, providing accessible routes for most visitors. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and convenience for all patients. Metered street parking is available nearby, offering flexible options for those arriving by car. The practice's central location ensures that women in Peterborough and the surrounding communities receive personalized and comprehensive obstetric and gynecological care in a welcoming environment.
- Are services from Dr. Harrington, 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. Harrington 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. Harrington, 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. Harrington 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. Harrington's office or your referring doctor.
- What can I expect during my first prenatal visit?
- Your first prenatal visit with Dr. Harrington 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. Harrington 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.
- What are some common gynecological surgeries Dr. Harrington 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. Harrington will discuss if surgery is appropriate for your condition and explain the specific procedure, risks, and benefits.
South Simcoe Medical
26 Hospital Drive
Peterborough, ON K9J 7C3
Phone: (705) 740-6507 | Fax: (705) 740-6891
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Harrington 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/Harrington-Brian-David/0181943-82267