Dr. Melanie Goncalves Caetano – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Toronto, ON

Specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Melanie Goncalves Caetano (an OBGYN) is committed to delivering personalized and evidence-based care to patients in Toronto, fostering a supportive healthcare environment. Practicing at a clinic and/or hospital setting in Toronto, 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 the highest level of professionalism and safety. Providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, Dr. Caetano is dedicated to supporting women through every stage of life, from adolescence to menopause, including prenatal and postnatal care.

Dr. Caetano graduated with her Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in 1998. She has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) for over 21 years, since 2003. She is certified as a RCPSC Specialist, demonstrating her expertise and commitment to ongoing professional development in women's health. Her experience encompasses a wide range of medical and surgical interventions, ensuring comprehensive care for her patients.

Her clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. Dr. Caetano is dedicated to promoting women’s health in Toronto with compassion and respect. She speaks English and Portuguese fluently, allowing her to connect effectively with diverse patient populations. Her approach emphasizes listening to her patients' concerns, educating them about their health options, and supporting them throughout their healthcare journeys.

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

Pregnancy and Childbirth Related Conditions

• Gestational Diabetes: Diabetes that develops during pregnancy, requiring careful monitoring and management to ensure health for both mother and baby.
• Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (Miscarriage): The occurrence of two or more consecutive pregnancy losses before 20 weeks of gestation, prompting investigation for underlying causes.
• Preeclampsia & Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy: Pregnancy complications characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, often the liver and kidneys.

Pelvic Floor and Urinary Disorders

• Fecal Incontinence (Accidental Bowel Leakage): The inability to control bowel movements, leading to unexpected leakage of stool from the rectum.
• Urinary Incontinence (Stress, Urge, Mixed, Overflow): The involuntary loss of urine, which can occur with physical exertion (stress), a sudden, strong urge (urge), a combination, or due to bladder overfilling.
• Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Frequent infections of the urinary system, requiring investigation for underlying causes and preventative strategies.

Infertility and Reproductive Health

• Uterine Factors Affecting Fertility (e.g., Septum, Asherman's Syndrome): Structural abnormalities or conditions of the uterus that can interfere with implantation or pregnancy maintenance.
• Female Infertility Evaluation & Initial Management: Comprehensive assessment to identify potential causes of difficulty conceiving in women and initiation of basic treatments.
• Fallopian Tube Disorders (Blockage, Hydrosalpinx, Adhesions): Conditions affecting the fallopian tubes, such as blockages or scarring, that can prevent sperm from reaching the egg or a fertilized egg from reaching the uterus.

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. Melanie Caetano 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.
• 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.
• Management of Common Pregnancy Complications: Diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (hyperemesis gravidarum), gestational diabetes (in conjunction with specialists if needed), hypertensive disorders, and preterm labor risk assessment and prevention strategies.
• 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.
• 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.
• Endometrial Biopsy: Office procedure to take a small sample of the uterine lining (endometrium) for diagnostic purposes, often for abnormal bleeding or suspected abnormalities.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Caetano 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. Caetano practices in a modern, accessible clinic located in Toronto's vibrant neighborhoods of The Kingsway, Montgomery's Inn, and Old Mill North. The facility is conveniently situated near major landmarks such as Toronto Eaton Centre and Meridian Hall, making it easy to reach via public transit, including TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for all patients. Metered street parking is available nearby, providing additional convenience for visitors seeking in-person care.

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

What are the treatment options for endometriosis that Dr. Caetano 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. Caetano will discuss the most appropriate approach for your situation.

Does Dr. Caetano support VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean)?

VBAC can be a safe option for many women who have had a previous Cesarean section. Dr. Caetano's approach to VBAC will depend on your specific medical history, the reason for your previous C-section, the type of uterine incision you had, and current pregnancy factors. she will assess your individual suitability for VBAC and discuss the benefits and risks with you. Hospital policies also play a role in VBAC availability.

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

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

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

At which hospital(s) does Dr. Caetano deliver babies or perform surgeries?

Dr. Caetano is affiliated with hospitals in Toronto. You can confirm the specific hospital(s) where she performs deliveries and gynecological surgeries by contacting Dr. Caetano's office directly. This information is important for planning your care and delivery.

1243 Islington Avenue
Toronto, ON M8X 1Y9

Phone: (416) 231-7878 | Fax: (416) 231-7801

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Caetano 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/Caetano-Melanie-Goncalves/0150286-72599