About
Dr. Saima Syed Akhtar 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 London, ON, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. Her practice adheres strictly to the standards and guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Akhtar’s role encompasses delivering compassionate obstetric and gynecological services, ensuring her patients feel supported and informed throughout their healthcare journey.
Dr. Akhtar graduated with a Medical Degree from Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine in 1991 in Canada. She has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) for over 27 years, since 1997. She is certified as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist, demonstrating her commitment to maintaining high standards of clinical expertise and ongoing professional development.
Her clinical philosophy centers around providing patient-centered care, emphasizing shared decision-making, evidence-based practices, and personalized treatment plans. Dr. Akhtar is dedicated to the health and well-being of women in London, offering services in English and Urdu to accommodate diverse patient needs. She strives to foster a supportive environment where women feel comfortable discussing sensitive health concerns and making informed choices about their reproductive health and overall wellness.
Dr. Saima Akhtar provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:
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.
- 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.
Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders
- Thyroid Disorders affecting Gynecologic Health: Conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism that can impact menstrual cycles, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes.
- 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.
- 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.
Common Benign Gynecological Conditions
- Ovarian Cysts (Functional, Dermoid, Endometriomas): Fluid-filled sacs or pockets in an ovary or on its surface, which are common and often benign but can sometimes cause pain or require intervention.
- Bartholin's Gland Cysts/Abscesses: Blockage and subsequent swelling or infection of the Bartholin's glands, located near the vaginal opening.
- Adenomyosis: A condition where endometrial tissue exists within and grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, often causing heavy, painful periods.
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. Saima Akhtar or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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. Akhtar 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. Akhtar practices in a modern clinic and hospital setting located in the heart of London, ON. The facility is situated in the vibrant Downtown London area, specifically within the North London East neighborhood. It is conveniently accessible from the Riverbend Area and Various Plazas North and South. Patients can reach the location easily via the London Transit Commission (LTC) bus services. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are available nearby, providing convenient parking for visitors. The location is designed to serve women of all ages, offering comprehensive obstetric and gynecological services in a welcoming environment.
- Are services from Dr. Akhtar, 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. Akhtar 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. Akhtar, 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. Akhtar 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. Akhtar's office or your referring doctor.
- Does Dr. Akhtar support VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean)?
- VBAC can be a safe option for many women who have had a previous Cesarean section. Dr. Akhtar'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 are my options for pain management during labor discussed by Dr. Akhtar?
- Dr. Akhtar 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. Akhtar during your prenatal visits.
- What does an Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) like Dr. Akhtar do?
- An Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), like Dr. Akhtar, 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 the treatment options for endometriosis that Dr. Akhtar might recommend?
- Treatment for endometriosis aims to manage pain and improve fertility if desired. Options vary based on symptom severity and patient goals and can include pain medications (NSAIDs), hormonal therapies (like birth control pills, progestins, GnRH agonists) to suppress endometrial tissue growth, and surgical treatments (laparoscopy) to remove endometrial implants and scar tissue. Dr. Akhtar will discuss the most appropriate approach for your situation.
- What is an IUD insertion like? Does Dr. Akhtar perform this?
- Yes, Dr. Akhtar 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. Akhtar 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. She will ensure the procedure is as comfortable as possible and provide post-insertion guidance.
Unit 5A, 800 Commissioners Road East
London, ON N6A 4G5
Phone: (519) 685-8002 | Fax: (519) 685-8071
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Akhtar 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/Akhtar-Saima-Syed/0192800-77344