Dr. Michelle Monique Lacasse – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | St. Albert, AB

Specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Michelle Monique Lacasse (an OBGYN) is committed to delivering personalized and evidence-based care to patients in St. Albert, fostering a supportive healthcare environment. Practicing at a clinic and/or hospital setting in the St. Albert City neighborhood of St. Albert, AB, 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 Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Lacasse's role encompasses providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions. She is dedicated to supporting women of all ages through their reproductive health journeys, from routine screenings to managing intricate health concerns.

With a solid foundation in medical education, Dr. Lacasse earned her MD (Doctor of Medicine) degree from the University of Saskatchewan in 2008. She completed extensive post-graduate training and certification in Obstetrics and Gynecology, ensuring her expertise in managing a wide range of women's health issues. Her training includes advanced surgical techniques, prenatal and postnatal care, and the management of pregnancy complications, equipping her to provide thorough and compassionate care.

Dr. Lacasse’s clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. She is dedicated to promoting women's health in St. Albert through personalized treatment plans that respect each patient's preferences and values. Fluent in English, she strives to create a welcoming environment where women feel comfortable discussing their health concerns and options. Her commitment is to empower women with knowledge and support throughout all stages of life, from adolescence to menopause and beyond.

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

Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders

• 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.
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) & Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): A collection of emotional and physical symptoms that occur in the one to two weeks before a woman's period, with PMDD being a more severe, debilitating form.
• Dysmenorrhea (Painful Periods): Cramping and pelvic pain associated with menstruation, which can range from mild to severe and impact daily activities.

Common Benign Gynecological Conditions

• Vulvodynia & Vulvar Pain Syndromes: Chronic pain or discomfort around the opening of the vagina (vulva) for which there's no identifiable cause, requiring careful management.
• Endometriosis: A painful disorder in which tissue similar to the uterine lining (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, commonly on ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvic lining.
• 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.

Pelvic Floor and Urinary Disorders

• Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Frequent infections of the urinary system, requiring investigation for underlying causes and preventative strategies.
• 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.
• Fecal Incontinence (Accidental Bowel Leakage): The inability to control bowel movements, leading to unexpected leakage of stool from the rectum.

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. Michelle Lacasse 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.
• Annual Gynecological Exams & Well-Woman Care: Routine check-ups including pelvic exams, clinical breast exams, preventative health screenings, and discussion of overall gynecological health.
• 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).
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• External Cephalic Version (ECV) for Breech Presentation: Procedure to attempt to turn a breech baby to a head-down position before labor, if appropriate.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Lacasse 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 Alberta (CPSA). A referral may be required for insured services.

Dr. Lacasse's practice is located within a modern clinic in the St. Albert City neighborhood of St. Albert, AB. The facility is easily accessible, situated close to major roadways including the Connects to Anthony Henday Drive, making it convenient for patients traveling from surrounding areas. Patients can access the clinic via St. Albert Transit (StAT), which offers both local and commuter services to Edmonton. The clinic is wheelchair accessible and provides ample parking for patients attending appointments. This central location ensures women can receive comprehensive obstetric and gynecological care in a comfortable, welcoming environment.

Are services from Dr. Lacasse, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

Medically necessary consultations, prenatal care, delivery, gynecological surgeries, and diagnostic procedures performed by a licensed Obstetrician and Gynecologist like Dr. Lacasse are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) or the clinic.

Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Lacasse, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist?

Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Obstetrician and Gynecologist like Dr. Lacasse 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. Lacasse's office or your referring doctor.

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

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

What are my options for pain management during labor discussed by Dr. Lacasse?

Dr. Lacasse will discuss various pain relief options for labor, which can range from non-medical methods (like breathing techniques, movement, massage, hydrotherapy if available) to medical options such as nitrous oxide, narcotic pain medication, and epidural anesthesia. The choice depends on your preferences, medical condition, and the progress of your labor. It's a good idea to discuss your pain management plan with Dr. Lacasse during your prenatal visits.

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

VBAC can be a safe option for many women who have had a previous Cesarean section. Dr. Lacasse'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.

What birth control options can Dr. Lacasse discuss with me?

Dr. Lacasse can discuss a wide range of contraceptive options tailored to your individual needs and preferences. These include hormonal methods (like birth control pills, patches, vaginal rings, injections, hormonal IUDs, contraceptive implants), non-hormonal methods (like copper IUDs, condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps), and permanent sterilization methods (tubal ligation or Essure for women, vasectomy referral for men). The best option depends on your health, lifestyle, menstrual cycle characteristics, and family planning goals. Dr. Lacasse will help you make an informed choice.

How can Dr. Lacasse help with menopause symptoms?

Dr. Lacasse can help manage bothersome menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and bone density concerns. Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress reduction), non-hormonal medications, vaginal estrogen for localized symptoms, or systemic hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after a thorough discussion of the benefits and risks based on your individual health profile and preferences.

250-625 St Albert Trail
St. Albert, AB T8N 3L3

Phone: (780) 459-1121 | Fax: (780) 459-0128

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Lacasse is a licensed Obstetrician and Gynecologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. 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 Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=0b1b6d88-163d-4d5c-a1bc-38b94ffba254&i=805