Dr. Niharika Chandra – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | St. Thomas, ON

Dr. Niharika Chandra 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 St Michaels Hospital in St. Thomas, ON, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. The practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, she serves women of all ages, including prenatal and postnatal care.

Dr. Chandra graduated with a Medical Degree from McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences in 2011 (Canada). She has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) for over 8 years, since 2016. She is certified as a RCPSC Specialist, ensuring adherence to the highest standards of specialty training and ongoing professional development.

Her clinical philosophy centers around patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. Committed to women's health in St. Thomas, Dr. Chandra strives to provide compassionate, personalized, and up-to-date medical services. She speaks English, French, and Hindi, facilitating effective communication with a diverse patient population and ensuring that every woman receives the care and attention she deserves.

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

Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders

• Hyperprolactinemia: Elevated levels of prolactin in the blood, which can interfere with menstruation and fertility.
• Amenorrhea (Absence of Menstruation): The absence of menstrual periods, either primary (menarche never occurred) or secondary (periods ceased after previously being regular).
• 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.

Sexual Health and Dysfunction

• Decreased Libido / Sexual Desire Disorders: Persistent lack of sexual interest or desire, which can have various physical or psychological causes.
• 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.

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.
• Breast Cancer Screening Awareness & Clinical Breast Exams: Performing clinical breast exams and advising on mammography guidelines and breast self-awareness for early detection.
• HPV Vaccination Counseling: Discussing the benefits and recommendations for the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to prevent HPV-related cancers.

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

• 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.
• Endometrial Biopsy: Office procedure to take a small sample of the uterine lining (endometrium) for diagnostic purposes, often for abnormal bleeding or suspected abnormalities.
• 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.
• 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).
• Myomectomy (Fibroid Removal - Laparoscopic, Hysteroscopic, Abdominal): Surgical removal of uterine fibroids while preserving the uterus, utilizing the most appropriate surgical approach.
• 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.
• 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. Chandra 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. Chandra practices at St Michaels Hospital located in the areas near central St. Thomas’ neighborhood of St. Thomas, ON. The hospital is conveniently situated close to several local points of interest and is easily accessible via local public transit. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at the hospital, providing convenient options for those arriving by private vehicle. The location offers a welcoming environment for women seeking obstetric and gynecological care in the community.

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

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

What is an IUD insertion like? Does Dr. Chandra perform this?

Yes, Dr. Chandra can perform IUD (Intrauterine Device) insertions in the office. The procedure involves placing a small, T-shaped device into your uterus for long-acting, reversible contraception. During the insertion, you might experience some cramping, similar to period pains. Dr. Chandra can discuss pain management options, such as taking an over-the-counter pain reliever beforehand or using local anesthetic in some cases. The actual insertion usually takes only a few minutes, and she will ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.

Does Dr. Chandra 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. Chandra 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.

When should a teenager have her first OBGYN visit, and what does it involve?

The first visit to an OBGYN for a teenager is often recommended between ages 13-15, or sooner if there are specific concerns like very painful periods, irregular cycles, or questions about sexual health. This initial visit may not involve a pelvic exam unless there's a specific medical reason. It's primarily an opportunity to build a rapport with Dr. Chandra, discuss normal development, menstrual health, contraception, STI prevention, and answer any questions in a confidential setting.

Does Dr. Chandra manage high-risk pregnancies?

Many OBGYNs manage a range of pregnancies, including some with moderate risk factors. Dr. Chandra 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. Chandra 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 is best to discuss your individual situation with her to determine the most appropriate plan of care.

St Michaels Hospital
189 Elm Street
St. Thomas, ON N5R 1J3

Phone: (519) 633-9292

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Chandra 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/Chandra-Niharika/0273548-95578