Dr. David Sidney Smithson – Reproductive Endocrinologist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. David Sidney Smithson, a Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist), specializes in hormonal disorders related to reproduction, fertility, and gynecology. Practicing at an endocrinology clinic within a hospital department in Edmonton, AB, he is a key member of the local medical community. Dr. Smithson adheres to the high standards and practice guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). His role involves the evaluation and management of complex reproductive and hormonal conditions, with a focus on delivering personalized, evidence-based care. He has a particular expertise in addressing infertility, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), menstrual irregularities, and other hormonal issues impacting reproductive health. Patients can expect a compassionate and confidential environment where advanced diagnostic and therapeutic techniques are employed to support their reproductive journeys.

Dr. Smithson graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of Western Ontario in Canada. He holds specialty certification as a Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist), including credentials such as FRCSC (Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada), LMCC (Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada), and the Certificate of Special Competence in Gynecologic Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. His training and certification reflect a commitment to excellence in hormone and metabolism care, with a focus on reproductive endocrinology and fertility management.

Dedicated to offering sensitive and comprehensive care, Dr. Smithson utilizes the latest diagnostic tools and therapeutic options to support patients through their reproductive health concerns. He believes in a patient-centered approach, emphasizing clear communication and tailored treatment plans. Fluent in both English and French, he strives to make his patients feel understood and supported throughout their reproductive health journey, providing guidance from initial assessment to advanced fertility interventions. His clinical philosophy is grounded in evidence-based practices and compassionate patient engagement, ensuring optimal outcomes for his patients in Edmonton and surrounding areas.

Dr. David Smithson diagnoses and treats a wide range of hormonal and metabolic disorders, including:

Reproductive Health & Infertility (Endocrine Aspects)

• Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (Endocrine Evaluation): Investigation into potential underlying hormonal factors that may contribute to repeated miscarriages, such as thyroid disorders, uncontrolled diabetes, or progesterone deficiency.
• Female Infertility (Ovulatory Dysfunction, PCOS-related, Luteal Phase Defect): Hormonal imbalances that can impair a woman's ability to conceive, such as problems with ovulation (e.g., due to PCOS), or issues with the uterine lining preparation.
• Male Infertility (Hormonal Causes, e.g., Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism): Endocrine disorders contributing to male infertility, such as low testosterone production due to pituitary or testicular issues, affecting sperm production and function.

Bone Health & Mineral Metabolism Disorders

• Rickets & Osteomalacia: Conditions characterized by softening and weakening of bones, typically due to severe and prolonged vitamin D deficiency. Rickets occurs in children, leading to skeletal deformities, while osteomalacia occurs in adults.
• Osteopenia (Low Bone Mass): A condition where bone mineral density is lower than normal peak density but not yet low enough to be classified as osteoporosis. It indicates an increased risk for developing osteoporosis.

Pituitary, Adrenal & Gonadal Axis Disorders

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - Endocrine Management: A common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular periods, signs of androgen excess (e.g., hirsutism, acne), and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound, with associated metabolic risks.
• Female Hypogonadism & Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI): Conditions involving low estrogen levels in women, leading to symptoms like amenorrhea, infertility, and menopausal symptoms, occurring before the typical age of menopause in POI.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific endocrine condition, please consult with Dr. David Smithson.

• Expert Second Opinion Consultations for Complex or Rare Endocrine Disorders: Providing specialized second opinions on challenging endocrine diagnoses, interpretation of ambiguous hormone test results, or evaluation of complex or multi-faceted treatment plans.
• Genetic Counseling Coordination & Testing for Hereditary Endocrine Neoplasia Syndromes & Familial Disorders: Risk assessment and coordination of genetic testing and counseling for individuals and families with suspected hereditary endocrine tumor syndromes (e.g., Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia - MEN1, MEN2; Von Hippel-Lindau), familial thyroid cancer, or other inherited endocrine conditions.
• Inpatient & Outpatient Management of Endocrine Emergencies & Crises: Acute diagnosis and management of potentially life-threatening hormonal imbalances such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS), thyroid storm, myxedema coma, adrenal crisis, severe hypoglycemia, and acute hyper/hypocalcemia, typically initiated in an emergency or hospital setting with ongoing outpatient follow-up.
• Interpretation of Complex Hormonal Assays, Dynamic Endocrine Function Tests & Genetic Markers: Expert analysis and clinical correlation of specialized blood, urine, and saliva tests measuring various hormone levels. Includes interpretation of dynamic stimulation and suppression tests (e.g., ACTH stimulation, dexamethasone suppression, oral glucose tolerance test for acromegaly) to precisely evaluate endocrine gland function and identify genetic predispositions.
• Comprehensive Endocrine System Consultation & Hormonal Health Evaluation: In-depth clinical assessment of potential hormonal imbalances and disorders affecting the endocrine glands (e.g., thyroid, pituitary, adrenal, pancreas, parathyroid, gonads). Includes detailed medical history, family history review, targeted physical examination, analysis of symptoms, and formulation of a personalized diagnostic and management plan.
• Transitional Care for Young Adults with Chronic Endocrine Conditions: Facilitating the smooth transition of adolescents and young adults with lifelong endocrine disorders (e.g., Type 1 diabetes, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hypopituitarism) from pediatric to adult endocrine care services.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Specific tests and treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation. Discuss with Dr. Smithson for care relevant to your specific condition.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant endocrinological care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Dr. Smithson practices at a well-equipped endocrinology clinic located in Edmonton's Downtown Core neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near the Botanical Gardens (Pyramids), offering a scenic environment for patients. Accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) with options for Light Rail Transit (LRT) and bus routes, the location is easily reachable for most patients. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring barrier-free access for individuals with mobility challenges. Parking is available nearby, with metered street parking and parking lots in close proximity, providing flexibility for patients arriving by car. The practice is committed to providing a comfortable and accessible setting for all patients seeking expert hormonal and reproductive care.

Are consultations, hormone tests, and treatments with Dr. Smithson, an Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist), covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist) like Dr. Smithson, most standard diagnostic hormone blood tests, dynamic endocrine function tests when indicated, and treatments for provincially insured endocrine conditions (e.g., diabetes, thyroid disorders, adrenal insufficiency, osteoporosis management as per guidelines) are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Some newer or specialized medications (e.g., certain advanced diabetes drugs, some growth hormone therapies, specific osteoporosis agents), medical devices (like some insulin pumps or continuous glucose monitors and their supplies), or treatments considered primarily for lifestyle or cosmetic reasons may have different coverage criteria or require special authorization. It's crucial to discuss coverage specifics for any proposed investigation or treatment with Dr. Smithson's office, the hospital/clinic, or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) directly.

Is a referral required to see Dr. Smithson, an Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist)?

Yes, for services covered by the provincial health plan, a referral from your family physician or another specialist (e.g., an internist, pediatrician, or gynecologist) is almost always required to schedule an appointment with an Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist) such as Dr. Smithson. Endocrine system disorders often involve complex interactions and can have wide-ranging effects, so an initial assessment by your primary care provider helps determine if specialist care is needed and ensures that relevant preliminary tests and medical history are available to the endocrinologist. This facilitates a more focused and efficient consultation.

What conditions does an Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist) like Dr. Smithson typically treat?

An Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist) is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases related to the endocrine system, which is the network of glands that produce and release hormones. These hormones control many important body functions, including metabolism (how your body gets energy from foods), growth and development, sexual function and reproduction, sleep, and mood. He is a Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist), concentrating on hormonal issues related to fertility, pregnancy, and reproductive health. Dr. Smithson manages conditions such as diabetes, thyroid diseases (hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, nodules), osteoporosis, adrenal gland disorders (like Cushing's or Addison's disease), pituitary gland disorders, parathyroid and calcium imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and some forms of hypertension or lipid disorders related to hormonal imbalances.

What treatment options for osteoporosis might Dr. Smithson discuss?

If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, Dr. Smithson will discuss a management plan aimed at reducing your risk of fractures. This starts with lifestyle modifications, including ensuring adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D (through diet and/or supplements), engaging in regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises, smoking cessation, and limiting alcohol intake. Fall prevention strategies are also important. If medication is indicated based on your bone density (DXA scan) and fracture risk assessment (e.g., using FRAX or CAROC tools), options include antiresorptive medications that slow bone loss (like bisphosphonates or denosumab) or anabolic agents that stimulate new bone formation (like teriparatide or romosozumab). He will help choose the most appropriate therapy based on your individual circumstances, potential side effects, and treatment goals.

Does Dr. Smithson deal with hormonal issues related to infertility or conditions like PCOS?

[IF PROVIDER IS REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINOLOGIST (REI):] Yes, as a Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility specialist (REI), Dr. Smithson has advanced training in diagnosing and treating complex hormonal disorders that affect fertility and reproductive health in both women and men. This includes conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), ovulatory dysfunction, endometriosis-related hormonal issues, premature ovarian insufficiency, male hypogonadism impacting fertility, and recurrent pregnancy loss. He can manage ovulation induction, provide hormonal support for assisted reproductive technologies like IVF, and address other intricate reproductive endocrine problems. [ELSE:] A general Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist) like Dr. Smithson routinely manages common endocrine conditions that can impact reproductive health, such as thyroid disorders or prolactin imbalances, and can provide initial evaluation and management for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), including its metabolic and hormonal aspects. For complex infertility requiring assisted reproductive technologies (like IVF) or highly specialized reproductive surgeries, He would typically collaborate with or refer patients to a subspecialist in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI).

Dr. Smithson mentioned 'dynamic endocrine testing'. What does that mean?

Dynamic endocrine testing involves tests that assess how your endocrine glands respond when stimulated or suppressed by specific substances. Unlike simple blood tests that measure baseline hormone levels, these tests evaluate the gland's functional reserve or its responsiveness to normal control mechanisms. For example, an ACTH stimulation test checks how well your adrenal glands produce cortisol when stimulated. A dexamethasone suppression test helps diagnose Cushing's syndrome by seeing if cortisol production can be suppressed. An oral glucose tolerance test can be used to diagnose diabetes or acromegaly. These tests usually involve taking a baseline blood sample, then administering a medication or substance, followed by one or more timed blood samples to measure hormone changes. Dr. Smithson uses these tests for more precise diagnosis of certain complex endocrine conditions.

9888 Jasper Ave NW, 300
Edmonton, AB T5J 5C6

Phone: (780) 990-4442 | Fax: (780) 990-4443 | Website: http://edmonton.pacificfertility.ca/

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Smithson is a licensed Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist) regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral is typically required for consultations with Dr. Smithson for services covered by the provincial health plan. Patients seeking fertility assessment may also be referred by their family physician or gynecologist.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=3903ae54-0580-4dbb-90db-19031dc5f2ac&i=1360