Dr. Caroline Ann Sibley – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Hamilton, ON

Dr. Caroline Ann Sibley is a dedicated Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) providing comprehensive care for women's reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. She offers a patient-focused approach to manage a wide spectrum of conditions. Practicing at UHN - Toronto General Hospital in Hamilton, ON, she delivers accessible and high-quality care to the community. Dr. Sibley adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe and ethical practice. Her role encompasses providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, with a compassionate understanding of each patient's individual needs.

Graduating with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in 1990 in Canada, Dr. Sibley has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology for over 29 years, since 1995. She is certified as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist, demonstrating her advanced training and commitment to excellence in women's health care.

Her clinical philosophy is centered on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. Dr. Sibley is dedicated to promoting women's health and well-being in Hamilton, providing services in English. Her approach emphasizes empathy, support, and empowering women to make informed choices about their health and reproductive goals.

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

Gynecologic Cancers and Precancerous Conditions

• Endometrial Hyperplasia & Uterine (Endometrial) Cancer: Precancerous thickening of the uterine lining (endometrial hyperplasia) or cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus (endometrium).
• 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.
• Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN) & Vulvar Cancer: Precancerous changes (VIN) or malignant tumors affecting the external female genitalia (vulva).

Screening and Preventative Care

• 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.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Screening & Counseling: Testing for common STIs based on risk factors and symptoms, along with counseling on prevention and safe practices.

Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders

• Amenorrhea (Absence of Menstruation): The absence of menstrual periods, either primary (menarche never occurred) or secondary (periods ceased after previously being regular).
• 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.

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. Caroline Sibley or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• 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.
• 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).
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 & Perimenopausal Symptoms: 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.
• Hysterectomy (Abdominal, Vaginal, Laparoscopic, Robotic-Assisted): Surgical removal of the uterus, performed through various approaches including minimally invasive techniques, depending on the medical indication and patient factors.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Sibley 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. Sibley's practice is located within the UHN - Toronto General Hospital in the vibrant neighborhood of Durand, Kirkendall South in Hamilton. The hospital is conveniently situated near the scenic Dundas Valley Conservation Area, offering a tranquil environment for patients. Accessible via the Hamilton Street Railway (HSR), the location is easily reachable by public transit. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are available close by, providing convenient parking solutions for visitors.

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

What are the treatment options for endometriosis that Dr. Sibley 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. Sibley will discuss the most appropriate approach for your situation.

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

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. Sibley, discuss normal development, menstrual health, contraception, STI prevention, and answer any questions in a confidential setting.

UHN - Toronto General Hospital
RFE G-S434, 317 Main Street West
Hamilton, ON L8P 1K1

Phone: (905) 540-8100 | Fax: (905) 540-9094

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Sibley 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/Sibley-Caroline-Ann/0048437-62415