Dr. Karen Leigh Nicole Splinter – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Sudbury, ON

Dr. Karen Leigh Nicole Splinter, a respected Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), focuses on empowering women through all stages of life with expert medical and surgical care, from adolescence through menopause and beyond. Practicing at Compass Community Health in Sudbury, 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 safe and ethical treatment. Dr. Splinter provides comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, emphasizing a compassionate and reassuring approach. She is dedicated to supporting women of all ages, including those requiring prenatal and postnatal care, ensuring each patient receives personalized attention and respectful care.

Dr. Splinter graduated with her Medical Degree from the University of Ottawa in 2007. She has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) for over 12 years, since 2012. She is certified as a RCPSC (Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada) Specialist, reflecting her advanced training and commitment to excellence in women’s health.

Her clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practices. Dr. Splinter is dedicated to improving women's health outcomes in Sudbury through compassionate communication, thorough examinations, and tailored treatment plans. She speaks English fluently and is committed to making her patients feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their health journeys.

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

Common Benign Gynecological Conditions

• Bartholin's Gland Cysts/Abscesses: Blockage and subsequent swelling or infection of the Bartholin's glands, located near the vaginal opening.
• Lichen Sclerosus / Lichen Planus (Vulvar): Chronic inflammatory skin conditions that can affect the vulvar area, causing itching, pain, and changes in skin appearance.
• 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.

Pregnancy and Childbirth Related Conditions

• 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.
• Routine & High-Risk Prenatal Care: Comprehensive monitoring and management throughout all stages of pregnancy, including those with increased maternal or fetal risks.
• 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.

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.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular periods, excess androgen levels, and/or polycystic ovaries on ultrasound.
• Hyperprolactinemia: Elevated levels of prolactin in the blood, which can interfere with menstruation and fertility.

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. Karen Splinter 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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).
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Splinter 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. Splinter practices at Compass Community Health, situated in the vibrant Downtown Sudbury, Minnow Lake, and Ramsey Lake Area neighborhoods. The clinic is conveniently located near Cambrian College and is easily accessible via GOVA Transit (Greater Sudbury Transit). The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate all patients, and metered street parking is available nearby for those arriving by car. The location offers a welcoming environment committed to providing comprehensive women's health services to the community in a comfortable and accessible setting.

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

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. Splinter will advise you on the appropriate screening schedule for your individual circumstances based on current provincial guidelines.

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

Yes, Dr. Splinter 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. Splinter 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. She ensures patient comfort and provides guidance for aftercare to ensure a smooth experience.

Compass Community Health
1596 Regent St.
Sudbury, ON P3E 3Z6

Phone: (705) 222-0492 | Fax: (705) 222-7226

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Splinter 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/Splinter-Karen-Leigh-Nicole/0269994-94661