Dr. Donald Terrance Unger – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | St. Albert, AB

Dr. Donald Terrance Unger 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 a clinic and/or hospital setting in the St. Albert City neighborhood of St. Albert, AB, he offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. His practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, Dr. Unger serves women of all ages, including prenatal and postnatal care.

Dr. Unger graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Alberta in 1973 and has completed extensive post-graduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology, earning certification in his specialty. His education and ongoing professional development ensure he remains up-to-date with the latest medical practices and innovations in women's health care.

His clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. Dr. Unger is committed to promoting women's health in St. Albert and surrounding communities, providing compassionate and personalized medical services. He speaks English fluently and prioritizes building trust and understanding with each patient to support their unique health needs and goals.

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

Pregnancy and Childbirth Related Conditions

• Multiple Gestation (Twins, Triplets, etc.): Pregnancies involving more than one fetus, requiring specialized care and monitoring due to increased risks.
• Preterm Labor & Birth: Labor or delivery that occurs before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy, potentially leading to complications for the newborn.
• Preeclampsia & Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy: Pregnancy complications characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, often the liver and kidneys.

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.
• 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.
• 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.

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).
• Thyroid Disorders affecting Gynecologic Health: Conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism that can impact menstrual cycles, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular periods, excess androgen levels, and/or polycystic ovaries on ultrasound.

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. Donald Unger or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• Menopause & Perimenopause Symptom Management: 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.
• Labor and Delivery Management (Vaginal & Cesarean): Professional medical care and support during labor and childbirth, including management of vaginal deliveries, assisted vaginal deliveries (forceps/vacuum if needed), and planned or emergency Cesarean sections (C-sections).
• Contraceptive Counseling & Full Range Management: Comprehensive discussion and provision of various birth control methods, including oral contraceptives, patches, rings, injectables, IUD insertion/removal (hormonal and copper), and contraceptive implant insertion/removal.
• External Cephalic Version (ECV) for Breech Presentation: Procedure to attempt to turn a breech baby to a head-down position before labor, if appropriate.
• 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.
• 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).
• 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. Unger 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 Alberta (CPSA). A referral may be required for insured services.

Dr. Unger's practice is located within a modern clinic and hospital setting in the vibrant neighborhood of St. Albert, AB. The facility is conveniently situated near St. Albert Place, which includes City Hall, the public Library, Museum, and Arden Theatre, making it accessible for residents and visitors alike. The location is easily reachable via St. Albert Transit (StAT), serving both local and commuter routes to Edmonton. The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate all patients, and paid parking options are close by to ensure convenient access for patients attending appointments.

Are services from Dr. Unger, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

Medically necessary consultations, prenatal care, delivery, gynecological surgeries, and diagnostic procedures performed by a licensed Obstetrician and Gynecologist like Dr. Unger are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) or the clinic.

Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Unger, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist?

Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Obstetrician and Gynecologist like Dr. Unger 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. Unger's office or your referring doctor.

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

What does an Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) like Dr. Unger do?

An Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), like Dr. Unger, is a medical doctor specializing in women's reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. They provide care throughout a woman's life, including prenatal care, labor and delivery, postpartum support, diagnosis and treatment of gynecological conditions (e.g., infections, fibroids, endometriosis, menstrual disorders), family planning, contraceptive management, preventative screenings like Pap tests, and management of menopausal symptoms.

Does Dr. Unger manage high-risk pregnancies?

Many OBGYNs manage a range of pregnancies, including some with moderate risk factors. Dr. Unger 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. Unger 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. Unger.

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

201-200 Boudreau Rd
St. Albert, AB T8N 6B9

Phone: (780) 418-8200

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Unger is a licensed Obstetrician and Gynecologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. 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 Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=6db54b42-b74c-4963-ac21-320e5e8e2dc8&i=1474