About
Dr. Mary Michele Farrugia, 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 a clinic and/or hospital setting in Toronto, ON, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. Her practice adheres strictly to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Farrugia provides comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, to support women's health and well-being. She serves women of all ages, including prenatal and postnatal care, ensuring personalized and attentive treatment for each patient.
Dr. Farrugia graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in 1998 and has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology since 2003, accumulating over 21 years of experience. She is certified as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology, reflecting her commitment to maintaining high standards of clinical excellence and ongoing professional development.
Her clinical philosophy is centered on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. Dr. Farrugia is dedicated to promoting women's health in Toronto through compassionate, respectful, and comprehensive medical services. She communicates fluently in English, ensuring clear and effective dialogue with her patients, and is committed to providing a supportive environment for women to discuss their health concerns openly.
Dr. Mary Farrugia provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:
Common Benign Gynecological Conditions
- 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.
- Bartholin's Gland Cysts/Abscesses: Blockage and subsequent swelling or infection of the Bartholin's glands, located near the vaginal opening.
Sexual Health and Dysfunction
- 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.
- Decreased Libido / Sexual Desire Disorders: Persistent lack of sexual interest or desire, which can have various physical or psychological causes.
Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders
- Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (Heavy, Irregular, Prolonged Periods): Menstrual bleeding that is different in frequency, duration, or amount than what is typical for an individual, requiring investigation.
- 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.
- Thyroid Disorders affecting Gynecologic Health: Conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism that can impact menstrual cycles, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes.
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. Mary Farrugia or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.
- Hysterectomy (Abdominal, Vaginal, Laparoscopic, Robotic-Assisted): Surgical removal of the uterus, performed through various approaches including minimally invasive techniques, depending on the medical indication and patient factors.
- 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.
- 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.
- External Cephalic Version (ECV) for Breech Presentation: Procedure to attempt to turn a breech baby to a head-down position before labor, if appropriate.
- Surgical Management of Pelvic Organ Prolapse (e.g., Colporrhaphy, Sacrocolpopexy): Reconstructive surgical procedures to correct the descent of pelvic organs like the bladder, uterus, or rectum, often utilizing native tissue repair or mesh augmentation.
- 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.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Farrugia 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. Farrugia practices in a modern clinic located within a hospital setting in the vibrant Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto, ON. The facility is conveniently situated near the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), making it easily accessible for patients from the downtown core and surrounding areas. Patients can reach the clinic via various modes of public transportation, including the TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus), which provides excellent connectivity throughout Toronto. The location is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Metered street parking is available nearby for those arriving by private vehicle, ensuring convenient access for all patients seeking high-quality women's health care.
- Are services from Dr. Farrugia, 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. Farrugia 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. Farrugia, 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. Farrugia 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. Farrugia's office or your referring doctor.
- What are the treatment options for endometriosis that Dr. Farrugia might recommend?
- Treatment for endometriosis aims to manage pain and improve fertility if desired. Options vary based on symptom severity and patient goals and can include pain medications (NSAIDs), hormonal therapies (like birth control pills, progestins, GnRH agonists) to suppress endometrial tissue growth, and surgical treatments (laparoscopy) to remove endometrial implants and scar tissue. Dr. Farrugia will discuss the most appropriate approach for your situation.
- I have uterine fibroids. What treatment options might Dr. Farrugia suggest?
- Treatment for uterine fibroids depends on their size, number, location, and the severity of your symptoms (like heavy bleeding or pain), as well as your reproductive goals. Options range from watchful waiting for asymptomatic fibroids, to medications (hormonal therapies to manage symptoms), to minimally invasive procedures (like uterine artery embolization - often by interventional radiology), or surgical removal of fibroids (myomectomy) or the uterus (hysterectomy). Dr. Farrugia will help you decide the best course of action.
700 University Avenue
Toronto, ON M5G 1Z5
Phone: (416) 586-8553 | Fax: (416) 586-8355
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Farrugia 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/Farrugia-Mary-Michele/0150309-72594