Dr. Colette Marie Rutherford – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Scarborough, ON

Dr. Colette Marie Rutherford, 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 Winchester District Memorial Hospital in Scarborough, ON, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. Her 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, she manages routine and complex conditions, ensuring women of all ages receive personalized attention. Whether addressing reproductive health, pregnancy, or childbirth, Dr. Rutherford is dedicated to supporting her patients’ health and well-being.

Dr. Rutherford graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in 1999. She has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) since 2004, accumulating over 20 years of experience in women’s health. She is certified as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist, maintaining up-to-date credentials and ongoing professional development to provide the highest standard of care.

Her clinical philosophy is centered on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. Dr. Rutherford is committed to addressing each patient's unique needs with compassion and respect, fostering an environment of trust and open communication. She is dedicated to improving women’s health outcomes in Scarborough and speaks fluent English, ensuring clear and effective communication with her diverse patient community.

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

Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders

• 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.
• 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.
• Thyroid Disorders affecting Gynecologic Health: Conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism that can impact menstrual cycles, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes.

Common Benign Gynecological Conditions

• Uterine Fibroids (Leiomyomas): Noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years, which can cause heavy bleeding, pain, pressure, or infertility.
• Endometriosis: A painful disorder in which tissue similar to the uterine lining (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, commonly on ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvic lining.
• Bartholin's Gland Cysts/Abscesses: Blockage and subsequent swelling or infection of the Bartholin's glands, located near the vaginal opening.

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.

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. Colette Rutherford or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Basic Infertility Workup & Ovulation Tracking: Initial investigations into causes of infertility and guidance on tracking ovulation.
• 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.
• Diagnostic & Operative Hysteroscopy: Procedure using a thin, lighted scope to examine the inside of the uterus and perform minor surgical treatments such as polyp removal, fibroid resection, or septum correction.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Rutherford 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. Rutherford practices at Winchester District Memorial Hospital, located in the areas near central Scarborough. The hospital is easily accessible via local public transit and is situated close to several local points of interest, making it convenient for patients. The facility is wheelchair accessible and offers parking facilities for visitors. The hospital provides a welcoming environment dedicated to high-quality women's health care for the Scarborough community.

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

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

Dr. Rutherford 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. Rutherford during your prenatal visits.

Does Dr. Rutherford manage high-risk pregnancies?

Many OBGYNs manage a range of pregnancies, including some with moderate risk factors. Dr. Rutherford has a particular focus on/experience with managing high-risk pregnancies, which may include conditions like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, multiple gestations (twins/triplets), or pre-existing maternal health issues. If your pregnancy is considered high-risk due to specific maternal or fetal conditions, Dr. Rutherford will provide comprehensive care and may work closely with, or refer you to, a Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) specialist if needed for highly specialized management. It's best to discuss your specific situation with Dr. Rutherford.

What is an IUD insertion like? Does Dr. Rutherford perform this?

Yes, Dr. Rutherford can perform IUD (Intrauterine Device) insertions in the office. The procedure involves placing a small, T-shaped device into your uterus for long-acting, reversible contraception. During the insertion, you might experience some cramping, similar to period pains. Dr. Rutherford can discuss pain management options, such as taking an over-the-counter pain reliever beforehand or using local anesthetic in some cases. The actual insertion usually takes only a few minutes.

What can I expect during my first prenatal visit?

Your first prenatal visit with Dr. Rutherford 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. Rutherford 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.

Does Dr. Rutherford support VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean)?

VBAC can be a safe option for many women who have had a previous Cesarean section. Dr. Rutherford's approach to VBAC will depend on your specific medical history, the reason for your previous C-section, the type of uterine incision you had, and current pregnancy factors. She will assess your individual suitability for VBAC and discuss the benefits and risks with you. Hospital policies also play a role in VBAC availability.

Winchester District Memorial Hospital
2863 Ellesmere Road
Scarborough, ON M1E 5E9

Phone: (416) 282-4242 | Fax: (416) 282-3812

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Rutherford 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/Rutherford-Colette-Marie/0158428-73569