Description
About Dr. Milena Garofalo
Dr. Milena Garofalo is a dedicated Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) providing comprehensive care for women's reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. She offers a patient-focused approach to manage a wide spectrum of conditions. Practicing at a clinic and/or hospital setting in Hawkesbury, 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), ensuring safe and ethical medical care.
Providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, Dr. Garofalo is committed to supporting women through every stage of life. She serves women of all ages, including prenatal and postnatal care, with a focus on compassionate, individualized treatment plans that prioritize patient well-being and informed decision-making.
Dr. Garofalo graduated with a Medical Degree from McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences in 2012. She has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) for over 7 years, since 2017. She is certified as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist, maintaining up-to-date expertise in her field.
Her clinical philosophy is rooted in patient-centered care, emphasizing shared decision-making, evidence-based practice, and respectful communication. She is dedicated to promoting women's health and well-being in Hawkesbury and surrounding communities. Dr. Garofalo speaks English, French, Italian, and Spanish, allowing her to connect with a diverse patient population and provide culturally sensitive care.
Common Conditions Dr. Milena Garofalo Addresses
Dr. Milena Garofalo provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:
Infertility and Reproductive Health
- Ovulatory Dysfunction (e.g., Anovulation, Oligo-ovulation): Problems with ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary), such as infrequent or absent ovulation, a common cause of infertility.
- 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.
Gynecologic Cancers and Precancerous Conditions
- Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN) & Vulvar Cancer: Precancerous changes (VIN) or malignant tumors affecting the external female genitalia (vulva).
- 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.
- Endometrial Hyperplasia & Uterine (Endometrial) Cancer: Precancerous thickening of the uterine lining (endometrial hyperplasia) or cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus (endometrium).
Screening and Preventative Care
- HPV Vaccination Counseling: Discussing the benefits and recommendations for the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to prevent HPV-related cancers.
- Breast Cancer Screening Awareness & Clinical Breast Exams: Performing clinical breast exams and advising on mammography guidelines and breast self-awareness for early detection.
- Bone Density Health (Osteoporosis Screening Referrals): Assessing risk factors for osteoporosis and referring for bone density screening (DEXA scan) when appropriate, especially around menopause.
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. Milena Garofalo or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.
Obstetrics and Gynecology Services Offered by Dr. Milena Garofalo
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Tubal Ligation / Salpingectomy for Sterilization: Surgical methods for permanent female contraception, including removal of fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) which may also reduce ovarian cancer risk.
- Myomectomy (Fibroid Removal - Laparoscopic, Hysteroscopic, Abdominal): Surgical removal of uterine fibroids while preserving the uterus, utilizing the most appropriate surgical approach.
- 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.
- Pap Tests, HPV Testing & Cervical Cancer Screening (Colposcopy, LEEP): Cervical cancer screening through Pap tests and HPV testing, with follow-up diagnostic procedures like colposcopy and treatment for precancerous changes (e.g., LEEP - Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure).
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Garofalo 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.
Practice Location & Accessibility
Dr. Garofalo practices in a modern clinic located in the areas near central Hawkesbury, ON. The facility is conveniently situated within a short distance from local points of interest and is easily accessible via local public transit. The clinic is wheelchair accessible to accommodate all patients. Metered street parking is available nearby, making it convenient for patients to attend their appointments. The practice is committed to providing accessible and welcoming healthcare services to the Hawkesbury community and surrounding neighborhoods.
Frequently Asked Questions about Obstetrics and Gynecology Care
- Are services from Dr. Garofalo, 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. Garofalo 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. Garofalo, 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. Garofalo 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. Garofalo's office or your referring doctor.
- Does Dr. Garofalo manage high-risk pregnancies?
- Many OBGYNs manage a range of pregnancies, including some with moderate risk factors. Dr. Garofalo has a particular focus on/experience with managing high-risk pregnancies, which may include conditions like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, multiple gestations (twins/triplets), or pre-existing maternal health issues. If your pregnancy is considered high-risk due to specific maternal or fetal conditions, Dr. Garofalo will provide comprehensive care and may work closely with, or refer you to, a Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) specialist if needed for highly specialized management. It's best to discuss your specific situation with Dr. Garofalo.
- Does Dr. Garofalo discuss or offer the HPV vaccine?
- The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is highly effective in preventing infections with HPV types that cause most cervical cancers, as well as other anogenital and oropharyngeal cancers. Dr. Garofalo can discuss the benefits of the HPV vaccine, current recommendations for different age groups (including catch-up vaccination for adults), and can either provide the vaccine or refer you to where it can be obtained, depending on clinic services and provincial programs.
- What are my options for pain management during labor discussed by Dr. Garofalo?
- Dr. Garofalo 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. Garofalo during your prenatal visits.
Contact & Licensing Information
Suite 128, 1111 rue Ghislain St.
Hawkesbury, ON K6A 3G5
Phone: (613) 632-1111 | Fax: (613) 636-6183
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Garofalo 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/Garofalo-Milena/0306506-108246