Dr. Michelle Susanne Suga Rak – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Windsor, ON

As a skilled Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), Dr. Michelle Susanne Suga Rak offers a full spectrum of services from routine gynecological exams to managing complex obstetrical cases, prioritizing patient well-being and informed choice. Practicing at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, in Windsor, ON, she provides accessible and high-quality care to the community. Dr. Rak adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe and effective healthcare delivery. Her role encompasses providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, for women of all ages, including prenatal and postnatal care.

Dr. Rak graduated with a Medical Degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in 2000 (Canada). She has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) for over 19 years, since 2005. She is certified as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist, reflecting her commitment to maintaining high standards of medical excellence and ongoing professional development.

Her clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. She is dedicated to promoting women's health in Windsor through compassionate, respectful, and individualized care. Dr. Rak communicates fluently in English, ensuring clear and effective communication with her patients, and aims to empower women to make informed choices about their health and well-being.

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

Common Benign Gynecological Conditions

• 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 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.
• Uterine Fibroids (Leiomyomas): Noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years, which can cause heavy bleeding, pain, pressure, or infertility.

Screening and Preventative Care

• Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap Tests & HPV Testing): Regular screening to detect precancerous changes or cancer of the cervix, primarily through Pap tests and HPV DNA testing.
• Contraception Counseling & Family Planning: Providing information and access to various methods of birth control to help individuals plan their families.
• Breast Cancer Screening Awareness & Clinical Breast Exams: Performing clinical breast exams and advising on mammography guidelines and breast self-awareness for early detection.

Gynecologic Cancers and Precancerous Conditions

• Endometrial Hyperplasia & Uterine (Endometrial) Cancer: Precancerous thickening of the uterine lining (endometrial hyperplasia) or cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus (endometrium).
• 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.

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

• Tubal Ligation / Salpingectomy for Sterilization: Surgical methods for permanent female contraception, including removal of fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) which may also reduce ovarian cancer risk.
• 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.
• 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.
• Laparoscopic Surgery for Endometriosis & Ovarian Cysts (Excision/Ablation): Minimally invasive surgical techniques for diagnosing and treating endometriosis implants (excision or ablation) and removing benign ovarian cysts.
• Endometrial Biopsy: Office procedure to take a small sample of the uterine lining (endometrium) for diagnostic purposes, often for abnormal bleeding or suspected abnormalities.
• 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.
• Diagnosis & Treatment of Vaginal Infections & Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Management of conditions such as yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and screening/treatment for STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV counseling.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Rak 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. Rak practices at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, located in the South Central Windsor neighborhood of Windsor. The facility is conveniently situated near the Lauzon Parkway Shopping Area and offers easy access via the EC Row Expressway. Patients can reach the clinic through Transit Windsor services, ensuring accessible transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible, providing barrier-free entry for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, offering convenience for those arriving by personal vehicle.

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

I have uterine fibroids. What treatment options might Dr. Rak 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. Rak will help you decide the best course of action.

What are some common gynecological surgeries Dr. Rak might perform?

Common gynecological surgeries include procedures like hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), oophorectomy (removal of ovaries), tubal ligation (female sterilization), D&C (dilation and curettage), endometrial ablation, and surgeries to treat conditions such as fibroids (myomectomy), endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or pelvic organ prolapse. Many of these can be performed using minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopy or hysteroscopy. Dr. Rak will discuss if surgery is appropriate for your condition and explain the specific procedure, risks, and benefits.

Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre,
2425 Tecumseh Road East, Department of Anesthesia, Bayview Campus
Windsor, ON N8W 1E6

Phone: (519) 254-6461 | Fax: (519) 254-1349

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Rak 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/Suga-Rak-Michelle-Susanne/0169188-80458