Dr. Deborah Anne Penava – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | London, ON

Specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Deborah Anne Penava (an OBGYN) is committed to delivering personalized and evidence-based care to patients in London, fostering a supportive healthcare environment. Practicing at a clinic and/or hospital setting in London, ON, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. Her practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that patients receive safe and effective medical services. Dr. Penava provides comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, with a focus on women's reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth.

With a medical degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry obtained in 1994, Dr. Penava has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) for over 25 years since 1999. She is certified as a RCPSC Specialist, reflecting her ongoing commitment to professional excellence and up-to-date clinical practice. Her extensive experience allows her to manage a wide range of women's health issues with expertise and compassion.

Driven by a patient-centered philosophy, Dr. Penava emphasizes shared decision-making, evidence-based practice, and personalized care tailored to each woman's unique needs. She is dedicated to promoting women's health in London through comprehensive consultations, preventive care, and support during pregnancy and childbirth. She communicates fluently in English and is committed to providing respectful, accessible, and empathetic healthcare to all patients.

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

Screening and Preventative Care

• Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap Tests & HPV Testing): Regular screening to detect precancerous changes or cancer of the cervix, primarily through Pap tests and HPV DNA testing.
• Contraception Counseling & Family Planning: Providing information and access to various methods of birth control to help individuals plan their families.
• Bone Density Health (Osteoporosis Screening Referrals): Assessing risk factors for osteoporosis and referring for bone density screening (DEXA scan) when appropriate, especially around menopause.

Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders

• 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.
• Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (Heavy, Irregular, Prolonged Periods): Menstrual bleeding that is different in frequency, duration, or amount than what is typical for an individual, requiring investigation.

Infertility and Reproductive Health

• Female Infertility Evaluation & Initial Management: Comprehensive assessment to identify potential causes of difficulty conceiving in women and initiation of basic treatments.
• Ovulatory Dysfunction (e.g., Anovulation, Oligo-ovulation): Problems with ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary), such as infrequent or absent ovulation, a common cause of infertility.
• 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.

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. Deborah Penava or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Tubal Ligation / Salpingectomy for Sterilization: Surgical methods for permanent female contraception, including removal of fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) which may also reduce ovarian cancer risk.
• Endometrial Ablation & Resection: Minimally invasive procedures to destroy or remove the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in appropriate candidates.
• 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).
• 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. Penava 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. Penava practices in a clinic located in the heart of London, ON, in the Downtown London neighborhood known as North London East. The facility is conveniently situated near landmarks such as Victoria Park and the Grand Theatre, making it easily accessible for patients. The practice is situated within a modern hospital or clinic setting that is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and accessibility for all patients. Patients can reach the location via the London Transit Commission (LTC) bus services, which provide reliable public transportation options. Metered street parking is available nearby, offering additional convenience for those driving to appointments. The facility is committed to providing a welcoming environment with easy access and amenities to support women’s health needs in the community.

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

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

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

800 Commissioners Rd E
London, ON N6A 5W9

Phone: (519) 646-6401 | Fax: (519) 646-6010

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Penava 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/Penava-Deborah-Anne/0056276-67864