About
Dr. Dorothy Igras-Kulach 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 the Peter Lougheed Centre in Calgary, AB, she is committed to delivering accessible and high-quality care to the community. Dr. Igras-Kulach adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring her practice aligns with provincial regulations and best practices.
Providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, Dr. Igras-Kulach serves women of all ages, including prenatal and postnatal care. Her clinical expertise encompasses a broad range of women’s health issues, with a focus on supporting women through every stage of life with empathy and professionalism.
Dr. Igras-Kulach graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Calgary in 1992. She completed extensive postgraduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology, gaining valuable experience in both medical and surgical aspects of women’s health. She holds certifications including Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC) and Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC).
Her clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. Dr. Igras-Kulach is dedicated to improving women's health outcomes in Calgary and surrounding communities. She speaks English and Polish, aiming to provide culturally sensitive care and clear communication to all her patients.
Dr. Dorothy Igras-Kulach provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:
Gynecologic Cancers and Precancerous Conditions
- Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD) (e.g., Molar Pregnancy): A group of rare pregnancy-related tumors that develop in the uterus from cells that normally form the placenta, requiring careful monitoring and treatment.
- Vaginal Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VAIN) & Vaginal Cancer: Precancerous changes (VAIN) or rare cancers affecting the vagina.
- Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN) & Vulvar Cancer: Precancerous changes (VIN) or malignant tumors affecting the external female genitalia (vulva).
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.
Pregnancy and Childbirth Related Conditions
- 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.
- Routine & High-Risk Prenatal Care: Comprehensive monitoring and management throughout all stages of pregnancy, including those with increased maternal or fetal risks.
- Postpartum Complications (e.g., Hemorrhage, Infection, Mood Disorders): Health problems that can occur after childbirth, such as excessive bleeding, infection, or postpartum depression/anxiety, requiring prompt attention.
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. Dorothy Igras-Kulach 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Endometrial Biopsy: Office procedure to take a small sample of the uterine lining (endometrium) for diagnostic purposes, often for abnormal bleeding or suspected abnormalities.
- Basic Infertility Workup & Ovulation Tracking: Initial investigations into causes of infertility and guidance on tracking ovulation.
- 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.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Igras-Kulach 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. Igras-Kulach practices at the Peter Lougheed Centre, located in the NE: Falconridge, Coral Springs, Castleridge neighborhoods of Calgary. The facility is conveniently situated with easy access connecting NW and SW areas of the city. It is accessible via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT routes. The building is wheelchair accessible, ensuring barrier-free access for all patients. Paid parking options are close by for added convenience.
- Are services from Dr. Igras-Kulach, 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. Igras-Kulach 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. Igras-Kulach, 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. Igras-Kulach 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. Igras-Kulach's office or your referring doctor.
- How can Dr. Igras-Kulach help with menopause symptoms?
- Dr. Igras-Kulach can help manage bothersome menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and bone density concerns. Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress reduction), non-hormonal medications, vaginal estrogen for localized symptoms, or systemic hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after a thorough discussion of the benefits and risks based on your individual health profile and preferences.
- 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. Igras-Kulach will advise you on the appropriate screening schedule for your individual circumstances based on current provincial guidelines.
- What birth control options can Dr. Igras-Kulach discuss with me?
- Dr. Igras-Kulach can discuss a wide range of contraceptive options tailored to your individual needs and preferences. These include hormonal methods (like birth control pills, patches, vaginal rings, injections, hormonal IUDs, contraceptive implants), non-hormonal methods (like copper IUDs, condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps), and permanent sterilization methods (tubal ligation or Essure for women, vasectomy referral for men). The best option depends on your health, lifestyle, menstrual cycle characteristics, and family planning goals. Dr. Igras-Kulach will help you make an informed choice.
- What are the treatment options for endometriosis that Dr. Igras-Kulach 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. Igras-Kulach will discuss the most appropriate approach for your situation.
- What can I expect during my first prenatal visit?
- Your first prenatal visit with Dr. Igras-Kulach 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. Igras-Kulach 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.
Peter Lougheed Centre
308-2675 36 St NE, Sunridge Professional Building
Calgary, AB T1Y 6H6
Phone: (403) 215-4070 | Fax: (403) 215-4071
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Igras-Kulach 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=9e692be3-fc12-495b-8c26-cda91a046ed4&i=663