About
Dr. Salikah Iqbal, a respected Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), focuses on empowering women through all stages of life with expert medical and surgical care, from adolescence through menopause and beyond. Practicing at Womens College Hospital in Toronto, ON, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe and effective treatment for her patients. Providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, Dr. Iqbal is dedicated to supporting women’s health with empathy and professionalism. She serves women of all ages, including those seeking prenatal and postnatal care, and is committed to fostering a supportive environment for her patients' health journeys.
Dr. Iqbal graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in 2008. She has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) since 2013, accumulating over 11 years of experience. She is certified as a RCPSC Specialist, reflecting her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical excellence and continuing education in her field.
Her clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. She is dedicated to improving women’s health in Toronto through compassionate, personalized treatment plans. Dr. Iqbal speaks Bengali and English, enabling her to communicate effectively with diverse patient populations and ensure understanding and comfort during consultations.
Dr. Salikah Iqbal 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.
- Uterine Factors Affecting Fertility (e.g., Septum, Asherman's Syndrome): Structural abnormalities or conditions of the uterus that can interfere with implantation or pregnancy maintenance.
- 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
- Vaginal Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VAIN) & Vaginal Cancer: Precancerous changes (VAIN) or rare cancers affecting the vagina.
- 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.
- Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN) & Vulvar Cancer: Precancerous changes (VIN) or malignant tumors affecting the external female genitalia (vulva).
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.
- 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.
- 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. Salikah Iqbal or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.
- Endometrial Ablation & Resection: Minimally invasive procedures to destroy or remove the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in appropriate candidates.
- Endometrial Biopsy: Office procedure to take a small sample of the uterine lining (endometrium) for diagnostic purposes, often for abnormal bleeding or suspected abnormalities.
- 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.
- 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.
- Myomectomy (Fibroid Removal - Laparoscopic, Hysteroscopic, Abdominal): Surgical removal of uterine fibroids while preserving the uterus, utilizing the most appropriate surgical approach.
- 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).
- 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.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Iqbal 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. Salikah Iqbal practices at Womens College Hospital, located in the vibrant Woburn neighborhood of Toronto. The hospital is conveniently situated near Polson Pier, offering easy access for patients. It is well-connected by public transportation, including TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus), making it accessible for most residents. The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Parking is available at the hospital, providing added convenience for those visiting by car. The hospital’s central location and accessible facilities ensure that women can receive comprehensive obstetric and gynecological care in a welcoming environment.
- Are services from Dr. Iqbal, 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. Iqbal 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. Iqbal, 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. Iqbal 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. Iqbal's office or your referring doctor.
- What is an IUD insertion like? Does Dr. Iqbal perform this?
- Yes, Dr. Iqbal 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. Iqbal 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 are some common gynecological surgeries Dr. Iqbal 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. Iqbal will discuss if surgery is appropriate for your condition and explain the specific procedure, risks, and benefits.
- At which hospital(s) does Dr. Iqbal deliver babies or perform surgeries?
- Dr. Iqbal is affiliated with hospitals in Toronto. You can confirm the specific hospital(s) where she performs deliveries and gynecological surgeries by contacting Dr. Iqbal's office directly. This information is important for planning your care and delivery.
- I have uterine fibroids. What treatment options might Dr. Iqbal 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. Iqbal will help you decide the best course of action.
Womens College Hospital
3630 Lawrence Ave E, Department of Dermatology
Toronto, ON M1G 1P6
Phone: (416) 901-6379 | Fax: (647) 689-3546
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Iqbal 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/Iqbal-Salikah/0250278-88814