Dr. Bruce William Thomas – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Toronto, ON

Dr. Bruce William Thomas is a dedicated Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) providing comprehensive care for women's reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. He offers a patient-focused approach to manage a wide spectrum of conditions. Practicing at St Michaels Hospital in Toronto, ON, he offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. His practice adheres strictly to 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, he serves women of all ages, including those requiring prenatal and postnatal care.

Dr. Thomas graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in 1962. He has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) since 1969, accumulating over 55 years of experience. He is certified as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist, ensuring his adherence to rigorous national standards for specialty practice.

His clinical philosophy centers on providing patient-centered care, emphasizing shared decision-making and evidence-based practice. Dr. Thomas is committed to the health and well-being of women in Toronto and speaks English fluently. His approach is compassionate, respectful, and tailored to each patient's unique needs, fostering a trusting environment for women to discuss their reproductive health concerns.

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

Pregnancy and Childbirth Related Conditions

• Ectopic Pregnancy: A pregnancy in which the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, typically in a fallopian tube, requiring urgent medical attention.
• Hyperemesis Gravidarum (Severe Morning Sickness): A severe form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that can lead to dehydration and weight loss, requiring medical management.
• Routine & High-Risk Prenatal Care: Comprehensive monitoring and management throughout all stages of pregnancy, including those with increased maternal or fetal risks.

Common Benign Gynecological Conditions

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): An infection of the female reproductive organs (uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries), often caused by sexually transmitted bacteria, which can lead to serious complications if untreated.
• Adenomyosis: A condition where endometrial tissue exists within and grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, often causing heavy, painful periods.
• Ovarian Cysts (Functional, Dermoid, Endometriomas): Fluid-filled sacs or pockets in an ovary or on its surface, which are common and often benign but can sometimes cause pain or require intervention.

Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders

• Thyroid Disorders affecting Gynecologic Health: Conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism that can impact menstrual cycles, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes.
• 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.
• Amenorrhea (Absence of Menstruation): The absence of menstrual periods, either primary (menarche never occurred) or secondary (periods ceased after previously being regular).

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. Bruce Thomas or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• Dilation and Curettage (D&C) / Dilation and Evacuation (D&E): Procedures to dilate the cervix and remove tissue from the inside of the uterus, for diagnosis or treatment of various uterine conditions or after miscarriage.
• Surgical Management of Pelvic Organ Prolapse (e.g., Colporrhaphy, Sacrocolpopexy): Reconstructive surgical procedures to correct the descent of pelvic organs like the bladder, uterus, or rectum, often utilizing native tissue repair or mesh augmentation.
• 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.
• 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.
• Endometrial Ablation & Resection: Minimally invasive procedures to destroy or remove the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in appropriate candidates.
• Tubal Ligation / Salpingectomy for Sterilization: Surgical methods for permanent female contraception, including removal of fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) which may also reduce ovarian cancer risk.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Thomas 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. Thomas practices at St Michaels Hospital, located in the University of Toronto's Harbord neighborhood in Toronto, ON. The hospital is conveniently situated near Harbourfront Centre, making it easily accessible for patients. The facility is well-served by Toronto's TTC system, including subway, streetcar, and bus routes, facilitating accessible transportation options. The hospital is wheelchair accessible, ensuring barrier-free access for all patients. Parking is available at the hospital for those arriving by car, providing convenience for patients and visitors alike.

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

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

Dr. Thomas 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. Thomas during your prenatal visits.

What are the treatment options for endometriosis that Dr. Thomas might recommend?

Treatment for endometriosis aims to manage pain and improve fertility if desired. Options vary based on symptom severity and patient goals and can include pain medications (NSAIDs), hormonal therapies (like birth control pills, progestins, GnRH agonists) to suppress endometrial tissue growth, and surgical treatments (laparoscopy) to remove endometrial implants and scar tissue. Dr. Thomas will discuss the most appropriate approach for your situation.

What are some common gynecological surgeries Dr. Thomas 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. Thomas will discuss if surgery is appropriate for your condition and explain the specific procedure, risks, and benefits.

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. Thomas will advise you on the appropriate screening schedule for your individual circumstances based on current provincial guidelines.

I have uterine fibroids. What treatment options might Dr. Thomas 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. Thomas will help you decide the best course of action.

St Michaels Hospital
76 Grenville St.
Toronto, ON M5S 1B1

Phone: (416) 323-7744 | Fax: (416) 323-6237

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Thomas 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/Thomas-Bruce-William/0017017-21802