Dr. Gwendolyn Joy Goodrow – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Waterloo, ON

Specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Gwendolyn Joy Goodrow (an OBGYN) is committed to delivering personalized and evidence-based care to patients in Waterloo, fostering a supportive healthcare environment. Practicing at a clinic and/or hospital setting in Waterloo, 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 care that is safe, ethical, and aligned with current medical guidelines. Providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, she aims to support women through all stages of life, including prenatal and postnatal periods, with empathy and dedication.

Dr. Goodrow graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in 1996. She has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) for over 23 years, since 2001. She is certified as a RCPSC Specialist, reflecting her advanced training and commitment to maintaining high standards in her field.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and the application of the latest evidence-based practices. She is dedicated to improving women's health outcomes in Waterloo and speaks English fluently. Dr. Goodrow’s goal is to foster a compassionate, respectful environment where women feel heard, informed, and supported throughout their healthcare journeys.

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

Infertility and Reproductive Health

• Fallopian Tube Disorders (Blockage, Hydrosalpinx, Adhesions): Conditions affecting the fallopian tubes, such as blockages or scarring, that can prevent sperm from reaching the egg or a fertilized egg from reaching the uterus.
• 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.

Common Benign Gynecological Conditions

• Ovarian Cysts (Functional, Dermoid, Endometriomas): Fluid-filled sacs or pockets in an ovary or on its surface, which are common and often benign but can sometimes cause pain or require intervention.
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): An infection of the female reproductive organs (uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries), often caused by sexually transmitted bacteria, which can lead to serious complications if untreated.
• Endometriosis: A painful disorder in which tissue similar to the uterine lining (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, commonly on ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvic lining.

Sexual Health and Dysfunction

• Decreased Libido / Sexual Desire Disorders: Persistent lack of sexual interest or desire, which can have various physical or psychological causes.
• Vaginismus: Involuntary muscle spasms in the pelvic floor muscles that make vaginal penetration painful or impossible.
• Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse): Persistent or recurrent genital pain that occurs just before, during or after sexual intercourse.

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. Gwendolyn Goodrow or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• 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.
• 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.
• Management of Common Pregnancy Complications: Diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (hyperemesis gravidarum), gestational diabetes (in conjunction with specialists if needed), hypertensive disorders, and preterm labor risk assessment and prevention strategies.
• Annual Gynecological Exams & Well-Woman Care: Routine check-ups including pelvic exams, clinical breast exams, preventative health screenings, and discussion of overall gynecological health.
• 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.
• Tubal Ligation / Salpingectomy for Sterilization: Surgical methods for permanent female contraception, including removal of fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) which may also reduce ovarian cancer risk.
• Management of Menstrual Disorders & Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Diagnosis and treatment for conditions like heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), irregular periods, painful periods (dysmenorrhea), amenorrhea (absence of periods), and premenstrual syndrome (PMS)/PMDD.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Goodrow 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. Goodrow's practice is located within a modern clinic in the Waterloo East (Glenridge, Lincoln Heights) neighborhood of Waterloo. The facility is conveniently situated close to the University of Waterloo North Campus, making it accessible for students and staff alike. Patients can easily reach the clinic via Grand River Transit (GRT), with options for both bus and ION Light Rail services. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of entry for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, providing added convenience for those arriving by car. The practice is committed to providing high-quality, accessible care in a welcoming environment.

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

What is an IUD insertion like? Does Dr. Goodrow perform this?

Yes, Dr. Goodrow can perform IUD (Intrauterine Device) insertions in the office. The procedure involves placing a small, T-shaped device into your uterus for long-acting, reversible contraception. During the insertion, you might experience some cramping, similar to period pains. Dr. Goodrow can discuss pain management options, such as taking an over-the-counter pain reliever beforehand or using local anesthetic in some cases. The actual insertion usually takes only a few minutes.

What can I expect during my first prenatal visit?

Your first prenatal visit with Dr. Goodrow 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. Goodrow 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.

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

An Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), like Dr. Goodrow, 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.

At which hospital(s) does Dr. Goodrow deliver babies or perform surgeries?

Dr. Goodrow is affiliated with affiliated local hospitals. You can confirm the specific hospital(s) where she performs deliveries and gynecological surgeries by contacting Dr. Goodrow's office directly. This information is important for planning your care and delivery.

suite 4S-406, 105-131 Union St E, Sunnyside building
Waterloo, ON N2J 1C4

Phone: (519) 743-1135 | Fax: (519) 743-1179

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Goodrow 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/Goodrow-Gwendolyn-Joy/0117162-70139