Dr. Josef Zahradnik – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Peterborough, ON

Dr. Josef Zahradnik 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 Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Peterborough, ON, he offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. The practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, Dr. Zahradnik is committed to supporting women through every stage of life. His gentle, reassuring approach ensures patients feel comfortable and informed during every consultation, whether addressing general reproductive health, pregnancy, or gynecologic concerns.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from Charles University Prague Faculty of General Medicine in 1974 in the Czech Republic. With over 33 years of experience practicing as a specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology since 1991, Dr. Zahradnik is well-versed in the latest medical techniques and standards. He is certified as a RCPSC Specialist, ensuring adherence to the highest professional and ethical standards in his practice.

Dedicated to patient-centered care, Dr. Zahradnik emphasizes shared decision-making and evidence-based practice. He is committed to women’s health in Peterborough, providing attentive, personalized care tailored to each individual's needs. Fluent in Czech, English, and Slovak, he strives to create a welcoming environment where patients feel heard and supported. His philosophy revolves around compassionate care, ongoing education, and fostering trust to empower women in managing their reproductive health confidently.

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

Gynecologic Cancers and Precancerous Conditions

• Vaginal Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VAIN) & Vaginal Cancer: Precancerous changes (VAIN) or rare cancers affecting the vagina.
• Ovarian Cancer (Epithelial, Germ Cell, Stromal Tumors): Cancer that begins in the ovaries, which can be difficult to detect early and often requires specialized surgical and medical treatment.
• Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN) & Vulvar Cancer: Precancerous changes (VIN) or malignant tumors affecting the external female genitalia (vulva).

Screening and Preventative Care

• Bone Density Health (Osteoporosis Screening Referrals): Assessing risk factors for osteoporosis and referring for bone density screening (DEXA scan) when appropriate, especially around menopause.
• Breast Cancer Screening Awareness & Clinical Breast Exams: Performing clinical breast exams and advising on mammography guidelines and breast self-awareness for early detection.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Screening & Counseling: Testing for common STIs based on risk factors and symptoms, along with counseling on prevention and safe practices.

Sexual Health and Dysfunction

• Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse): Persistent or recurrent genital pain that occurs just before, during or after sexual intercourse.
• 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.

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. Josef Zahradnik or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• 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.
• Endometrial Ablation & Resection: Minimally invasive procedures to destroy or remove the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in appropriate candidates.
• Comprehensive Prenatal Care & Risk Assessment: Regular check-ups, monitoring, and guidance throughout pregnancy to ensure maternal and fetal well-being, including initial risk assessment, ultrasound referrals, genetic screening discussions, and prenatal testing.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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).

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Zahradnik 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. Zahradnik practices at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre located in the heart of Downtown Peterborough, in the Central neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near Trent University Symons Campus and the Peterborough Lift Lock National Historic Site, making it an accessible destination for patients. Public transportation options are available through Peterborough Transit, providing easy access to the clinic. The clinic is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Metered street parking is available nearby for those arriving by car, ensuring convenient and flexible access for all patients.

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

Does Dr. Zahradnik manage high-risk pregnancies?

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

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

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

Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
1 Hospital Drive, Obstetrical Anesthesia Division Department of Anaesthesia
Peterborough, ON K9J 7C6

Phone: (705) 743-2121

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Zahradnik 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/Zahradnik-Josef/0042512-56490