Dr. Lorraine Margaret Elit – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Hamilton, ON

Specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Lorraine Margaret Elit (an OBGYN) is committed to delivering personalized and evidence-based care to patients in Hamilton, fostering a supportive healthcare environment. Practicing at Erie St Clair Clinic in Hamilton, ON, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. Her practice adheres to the standards and guidelines established 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, she focuses on supporting women through all stages of life, from adolescence to postmenopause. Dr. Elit is dedicated to serving women of all ages, including those requiring prenatal and postnatal care, ensuring each patient receives attentive and individualized treatment.

Dr. Elit graduated with a Medical Degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in 1984. She has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) since 1989, accumulating over 35 years of experience. She is certified as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist, maintaining a high standard of expertise and clinical excellence in women's health care.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. She is committed to addressing women's health concerns in Hamilton with compassion and professionalism. Dr. Elit speaks English fluently and values open communication, ensuring her patients feel heard, informed, and empowered in their healthcare decisions.

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

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.

Gynecologic Cancers and Precancerous Conditions

• 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.
• Cervical Dysplasia (CIN) & Cervical Cancer: Precancerous changes (Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia) or malignant tumors of the cervix, the lowermost part of the uterus, often linked to HPV infection.
• Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN) & Vulvar Cancer: Precancerous changes (VIN) or malignant tumors affecting the external female genitalia (vulva).

Common Benign Gynecological Conditions

• Uterine Fibroids (Leiomyomas): Noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years, which can cause heavy bleeding, pain, pressure, or infertility.
• Adenomyosis: A condition where endometrial tissue exists within and grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, often causing heavy, painful periods.
• Vaginitis (Yeast Infections, Bacterial Vaginosis, Trichomoniasis): Inflammation of the vagina that can result in discharge, itching, and pain, commonly caused by infections or imbalances in vaginal flora.

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. Lorraine Elit or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• Annual Gynecological Exams & Well-Woman Care: Routine check-ups including pelvic exams, clinical breast exams, preventative health screenings, and discussion of overall gynecological health.
• Dilation and Curettage (D&C) / Dilation and Evacuation (D&E): Procedures to dilate the cervix and remove tissue from the inside of the uterus, for diagnosis or treatment of various uterine conditions or after miscarriage.
• 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.
• Endometrial Biopsy: Office procedure to take a small sample of the uterine lining (endometrium) for diagnostic purposes, often for abnormal bleeding or suspected abnormalities.
• Basic Infertility Workup & Ovulation Tracking: Initial investigations into causes of infertility and guidance on tracking ovulation.
• Tubal Ligation / Salpingectomy for Sterilization: Surgical methods for permanent female contraception, including removal of fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) which may also reduce ovarian cancer risk.
• 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.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Elit 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. Elit's practice is based at Erie St Clair Clinic, situated in the Hamilton Mountain Central (Inch Park, Eastmount) neighborhood of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently located near Mohawk College (Fennell Campus) and Westmount Recreation Centre, making it accessible for residents in the area. The facility is easily reachable via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR), ensuring public transportation options are available. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, and parking is available on-site for patients' convenience. The location is designed to provide a welcoming environment for women seeking comprehensive obstetric and gynecological care.

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

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

Yes, Dr. Elit 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. Elit 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.

When should a teenager have her first OBGYN visit, and what does it involve?

The first visit to an OBGYN for a teenager is often recommended between ages 13-15, or sooner if there are specific concerns like very painful periods, irregular cycles, or questions about sexual health. This initial visit may not involve a pelvic exam unless there's a specific medical reason. It's primarily an opportunity to build a rapport with Dr. Elit, discuss normal development, menstrual health, contraception, STI prevention, and answer any questions in a confidential setting.

Erie St Clair Clinic
699 Concession Street
Hamilton, ON L8V 5C2

Phone: (905) 387-9495

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Elit 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/Elit-Lorraine-Margaret/0039993-53969