Dr. Pascale Guérin

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

Screening and Preventative Care

• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Screening & Counseling: Testing for common STIs based on risk factors and symptoms, along with counseling on prevention and safe practices.
• Contraception Counseling & Family Planning: Providing information and access to various methods of birth control to help individuals plan their families.
• HPV Vaccination Counseling: Discussing the benefits and recommendations for the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to prevent HPV-related cancers.

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.
• Routine & High-Risk Prenatal Care: Comprehensive monitoring and management throughout all stages of pregnancy, including those with increased maternal or fetal risks.
• 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.

Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders

• Thyroid Disorders affecting Gynecologic Health: Conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism that can impact menstrual cycles, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes.
• 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.
• Menopause & Perimenopausal Symptoms: The natural cessation of menstruation and the preceding transitional period, often accompanied by symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes.

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

• Annual Gynecological Exams & Well-Woman Care: Routine check-ups including pelvic exams, clinical breast exams, preventative health screenings, and discussion of overall gynecological health.
• Endometrial Biopsy: Office procedure to take a small sample of the uterine lining (endometrium) for diagnostic purposes, often for abnormal bleeding or suspected abnormalities.
• 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.
• 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.
• Myomectomy (Fibroid Removal - Laparoscopic, Hysteroscopic, Abdominal): Surgical removal of uterine fibroids while preserving the uterus, utilizing the most appropriate surgical approach.
• Comprehensive Prenatal Care & Risk Assessment: Regular check-ups, monitoring, and guidance throughout pregnancy to ensure maternal and fetal well-being, including initial risk assessment, ultrasound referrals, genetic screening discussions, and prenatal testing.
• Endometrial Ablation & Resection: Minimally invasive procedures to destroy or remove the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in appropriate candidates.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Guérin 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 Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ). A referral may be required for insured services.

Dr. Guérin practices at the Hôpital de Chicoutimi-CIUSS SLSJ, located in the vibrant areas near central Chicoutimi. The facility is conveniently situated close to several local points of interest and is easily accessible via local public transit. The hospital is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are available nearby, providing convenient transportation choices for patients visiting for appointments. This central location allows Dr. Guérin to serve women of all ages in the Chicoutimi community with compassionate and comprehensive obstetric and gynecological care.

Are services from Dr. Guérin, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

Medically necessary consultations, prenatal care, delivery, gynecological surgeries, and diagnostic procedures performed by a licensed Obstetrician and Gynecologist like Dr. Guérin are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC 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 Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) or the clinic.

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

Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Obstetrician and Gynecologist like Dr. Guérin 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. Guérin's office or your referring doctor.

Does Dr. Guérin manage high-risk pregnancies?

Many OBGYNs manage a range of pregnancies, including some with moderate risk factors. Dr. Guérin 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. Guérin 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 her.

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

Yes, Dr. Guérin 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. Guérin 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.

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

Dr. Guérin 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. Guérin will help you make an informed choice.

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

Dr. Guérin 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. Guérin during your prenatal visits.

Hôpital de Chicoutimi-CIUSS SLSJ
305 rue Saint-Vallier
Chicoutimi, QC G7H 5H6

Phone: (418) 541-1000

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Guérin is a licensed Obstetrician and Gynecologist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from your family physician or another qualified healthcare provider is typically required for provincially insured consultations and treatments.

Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=14710