About
As a skilled Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), Dr. Frank Anthony Potestio offers a full spectrum of services from routine gynecological exams to managing complex obstetrical cases, prioritizing patient well-being and informed choice. Practicing at the Russell M Hall Family Health Centre in Thunder Bay, ON, he is dedicated to providing accessible, compassionate, and high-quality care to women of all ages within the community. His practice adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe and effective treatment in a supportive environment.
Dr. Potestio's role encompasses comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine preventive services, pregnancy management, childbirth, and treatment of complex gynecological conditions. His approach emphasizes personalized care tailored to each woman's unique health needs, whether addressing reproductive health, pregnancy, menopause, or other gynecological concerns. He is committed to fostering a trusting, respectful relationship with his patients, guiding them through important health decisions with empathy and clarity.
With a strong foundation in medical education and ongoing professional development, Dr. Potestio is dedicated to staying current with the latest advancements in women's health. He speaks English and Italian fluently, enabling him to connect effectively with a diverse patient population. His clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice, ensuring that every woman receives the highest standard of care in a warm, welcoming environment.
Dr. Frank Potestio provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:
Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders
- Dysmenorrhea (Painful Periods): Cramping and pelvic pain associated with menstruation, which can range from mild to severe and impact daily activities.
- 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.
- Hyperprolactinemia: Elevated levels of prolactin in the blood, which can interfere with menstruation and fertility.
Sexual Health and Dysfunction
- Decreased Libido / Sexual Desire Disorders: Persistent lack of sexual interest or desire, which can have various physical or psychological causes.
- Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse): Persistent or recurrent genital pain that occurs just before, during or after sexual intercourse.
- Vaginismus: Involuntary muscle spasms in the pelvic floor muscles that make vaginal penetration painful or impossible.
Pregnancy and Childbirth Related Conditions
- Ectopic Pregnancy: A pregnancy in which the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, typically in a fallopian tube, requiring urgent medical attention.
- Placenta Previa & Placental Abruption: Conditions where the placenta is abnormally positioned (previa) or detaches prematurely from the uterine wall (abruption), posing risks to mother and baby.
- Hyperemesis Gravidarum (Severe Morning Sickness): A severe form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that can lead to dehydration and weight loss, requiring medical management.
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. Frank Potestio or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.
- 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).
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Annual Gynecological Exams & Well-Woman Care: Routine check-ups including pelvic exams, clinical breast exams, preventative health screenings, and discussion of overall gynecological health.
- 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.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Potestio 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. Potestio practices at the Russell M Hall Family Health Centre, situated in the vibrant Port Arthur North neighborhood of Thunder Bay, ON. The clinic is conveniently located near Thunder Bay City Hall and Victoriaville Civic Centre, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that patients with mobility needs can receive care comfortably. For those arriving by vehicle, paid parking options are available nearby. The clinic is well-connected via Thunder Bay Transit, providing public transportation options to serve the community effectively. Patients can expect a welcoming environment dedicated to quality, compassionate women's health care.
- Are services from Dr. Potestio, 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. Potestio 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. Potestio, 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. Potestio 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. Potestio's office or your referring doctor.
- I have uterine fibroids. What treatment options might Dr. Potestio suggest?
- Treatment for uterine fibroids depends on their size, number, location, and the severity of your symptoms (like heavy bleeding or pain), as well as your reproductive goals. Options range from watchful waiting for asymptomatic fibroids, to medications (hormonal therapies to manage symptoms), to minimally invasive procedures (like uterine artery embolization - often by interventional radiology), or surgical removal of fibroids (myomectomy) or the uterus (hysterectomy). Dr. Potestio will help you decide the best course of action.
- What can I expect during my first prenatal visit?
- Your first prenatal visit with Dr. Potestio 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. Potestio 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. Potestio support VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean)?
- VBAC can be a safe option for many women who have had a previous Cesarean section. Dr. Potestio'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. He will assess your individual suitability for VBAC and discuss the benefits and risks with you. Hospital policies also play a role in VBAC availability.
Russell M Hall Family Health Centre
194 North Court Street, P O Box 550
Thunder Bay, ON P7A 4V7
Phone: (807) 346-1000
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Potestio 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/Potestio-Frank-Anthony/0057598-69186