Dr. Joanne Benoit

Dr. Joanne Benoit diagnoses and treats a wide range of hormonal and metabolic disorders, including:

Reproductive Health & Infertility (Endocrine Aspects)

• Hyperprolactinemia: Elevated levels of prolactin hormone in the blood, which can cause irregular periods, infertility, and milky nipple discharge (galactorrhea) in women, and low libido or erectile dysfunction in men.
• Male Infertility (Hormonal Causes, e.g., Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism): Endocrine disorders contributing to male infertility, such as low testosterone production due to pituitary or testicular issues, affecting sperm production and function.
• Amenorrhea (Absent Menstruation) & Oligomenorrhea (Infrequent Menstruation): Absence or infrequent occurrence of menstrual periods, which can be caused by a variety of hormonal imbalances affecting the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis.

Bone Health & Mineral Metabolism Disorders

• Vitamin D Deficiency and Insufficiency: Inadequate levels of vitamin D, which is essential for calcium absorption and bone mineralization, leading to potential bone pain, muscle weakness, and increased fracture risk.
• Disorders of Phosphate Homeostasis (Hypophosphatemia, Hyperphosphatemia): Imbalances in blood phosphate levels, which can be caused by various underlying conditions and affect bone health, muscle function, and energy metabolism.
• Osteoporosis (Postmenopausal, Senile, Glucocorticoid-Induced): A progressive bone disease characterized by decreased bone mass and density, leading to an increased risk of fractures, particularly of the hip, spine, and wrist.

Diabetes & Related Metabolic Disorders

• Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM): An autoimmune condition resulting in the destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, requiring lifelong insulin therapy for survival and glucose management.
• Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM): A progressive condition characterized by insulin resistance (where the body's cells don't respond effectively to insulin) and/or relative insulin deficiency, often linked to genetics, lifestyle factors, and obesity.
• Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM): Diabetes diagnosed during pregnancy that was not clearly overt diabetes prior to gestation, requiring careful management to ensure healthy outcomes for both mother and baby.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific endocrine condition, please consult with Dr. Joanne Benoit.

• Expert Second Opinion Consultations for Complex or Rare Endocrine Disorders: Providing specialized second opinions on challenging endocrine diagnoses, interpretation of ambiguous hormone test results, or evaluation of complex or multi-faceted treatment plans.
• Interpretation of Complex Hormonal Assays, Dynamic Endocrine Function Tests & Genetic Markers: Expert analysis and clinical correlation of specialized blood, urine, and saliva tests measuring various hormone levels. Includes interpretation of dynamic stimulation and suppression tests (e.g., ACTH stimulation, dexamethasone suppression, oral glucose tolerance test for acromegaly) to precisely evaluate endocrine gland function and identify genetic predispositions.
• Inpatient & Outpatient Management of Endocrine Emergencies & Crises: Acute diagnosis and management of potentially life-threatening hormonal imbalances such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS), thyroid storm, myxedema coma, adrenal crisis, severe hypoglycemia, and acute hyper/hypocalcemia, typically initiated in an emergency or hospital setting with ongoing outpatient follow-up.
• Comprehensive Endocrine System Consultation & Hormonal Health Evaluation: In-depth clinical assessment of potential hormonal imbalances and disorders affecting the endocrine glands (e.g., thyroid, pituitary, adrenal, pancreas, parathyroid, gonads). Includes detailed medical history, family history review, targeted physical examination, analysis of symptoms, and formulation of a personalized diagnostic and management plan.
• Transitional Care for Young Adults with Chronic Endocrine Conditions: Facilitating the smooth transition of adolescents and young adults with lifelong endocrine disorders (e.g., Type 1 diabetes, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hypopituitarism) from pediatric to adult endocrine care services.
• Genetic Counseling Coordination & Testing for Hereditary Endocrine Neoplasia Syndromes & Familial Disorders: Risk assessment and coordination of genetic testing and counseling for individuals and families with suspected hereditary endocrine tumor syndromes (e.g., Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia - MEN1, MEN2; Von Hippel-Lindau), familial thyroid cancer, or other inherited endocrine conditions.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Specific tests and treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation. Discuss with Dr. Benoit for care relevant to your specific condition.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant endocrinological care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Clinique fertilité OVO is situated in Montréal's vibrant areas near central Montréal, conveniently accessible via public transit options including the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) (Métro, Bus). The practice is located close to landmarks such as Saint Joseph's Oratory and St. Mary's Hospital Center, making it easily reachable for patients in the region. The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, ensuring ease of access for patients arriving by car. The practice is committed to providing a welcoming environment for all patients seeking expert hormonal and reproductive health care.

Are consultations, hormone tests, and treatments with Dr. Benoit, an Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist), covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist) like Dr. Benoit, most standard diagnostic hormone blood tests, dynamic endocrine function tests when indicated, and treatments for provincially insured endocrine conditions (e.g., diabetes, thyroid disorders, adrenal insufficiency, osteoporosis management as per guidelines) are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Some newer or specialized medications (e.g., certain advanced diabetes drugs, some growth hormone therapies, specific osteoporosis agents), medical devices (like some insulin pumps or continuous glucose monitors and their supplies), or treatments considered primarily for lifestyle or cosmetic reasons may have different coverage criteria or require special authorization. It's crucial to discuss coverage specifics for any proposed investigation or treatment with Dr. Benoit's office, the hospital/clinic, or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) directly.

Is a referral required to see Dr. Benoit, an Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist)?

Yes, for services covered by the provincial health plan, a referral from your family physician or another specialist (e.g., an internist, pediatrician, or gynecologist) is almost always required to schedule an appointment with an Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist) such as Dr. Benoit. Endocrine system disorders often involve complex interactions and can have wide-ranging effects, so an initial assessment by your primary care provider helps determine if specialist care is needed and ensures that relevant preliminary tests and medical history are available to the endocrinologist. This facilitates a more focused and efficient consultation.

What treatment options for osteoporosis might Dr. Benoit discuss?

If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, Dr. Benoit will discuss a management plan aimed at reducing your risk of fractures. This starts with lifestyle modifications, including ensuring adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D (through diet and/or supplements), engaging in regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises, smoking cessation, and limiting alcohol intake. Fall prevention strategies are also important. If medication is indicated based on your bone density (DXA scan) and fracture risk assessment (e.g., using FRAX or CAROC tools), options include antiresorptive medications that slow bone loss (like bisphosphonates or denosumab) or anabolic agents that stimulate new bone formation (like teriparatide or romosozumab). She will help choose the most appropriate therapy based on your individual circumstances, potential side effects, and treatment goals.

Does Dr. Benoit deal with hormonal issues related to infertility or conditions like PCOS?

[IF PROVIDER IS REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINOLOGIST (REI):] Yes, as a Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility specialist (REI), Dr. Benoit has advanced training in diagnosing and treating complex hormonal disorders that affect fertility and reproductive health in both women and men. This includes conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), ovulatory dysfunction, endometriosis-related hormonal issues, premature ovarian insufficiency, male hypogonadism impacting fertility, and recurrent pregnancy loss. She can manage ovulation induction, provide hormonal support for assisted reproductive technologies like IVF, and address other intricate reproductive endocrine problems. [ELSE:] A general Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist) like Dr. Benoit routinely manages common endocrine conditions that can impact reproductive health, such as thyroid disorders or prolactin imbalances, and can provide initial evaluation and management for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), including its metabolic and hormonal aspects. For complex infertility requiring assisted reproductive technologies (like IVF) or highly specialized reproductive surgeries, She would typically collaborate with or refer patients to a subspecialist in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI).

What is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and when might Dr. Benoit recommend it?

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) involves taking medication to replace hormones that the body is no longer producing in sufficient amounts. Dr. Benoit might recommend HRT for various conditions. For example, thyroid hormone replacement (levothyroxine) is used for hypothyroidism. For women experiencing troublesome menopausal symptoms, menopausal hormone therapy (MHT, using estrogen with or without progestogen) can be considered. For men with confirmed hypogonadism (low testosterone) and symptoms, testosterone replacement therapy may be an option. HRT is also crucial for individuals with adrenal insufficiency (cortisol/aldosterone replacement) or hypopituitarism (replacing deficient pituitary hormones). The decision to use HRT is highly individualized, based on the specific condition, symptoms, benefits, and potential risks, which Dr. Benoit will discuss thoroughly.

Clinique fertilité OVO
8000 boul Décarie
Montréal, QC H4P 2S4

Phone: (514) 798-2000 | Fax: (514) 798-2001

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Benoit is a licensed Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist) regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral is typically required for consultations with Dr. Benoit for services covered by the provincial health plan. Patients seeking fertility assessment may also be referred by their family physician or gynecologist.

Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=81143