Dr. Stephanie Heather Malaika Winsor – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Hamilton, ON

Dr. Stephanie Heather Malaika Winsor 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 Etobicoke General Hospital in Hamilton, 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). Dr. Winsor is committed to supporting women through all stages of life, including prenatal, postnatal, and general gynecological care, ensuring a compassionate and reassuring environment for her patients.

With a medical degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry earned in 1993, Dr. Winsor has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology for over 26 years, since 1998. She is certified as a RCPSC Specialist, demonstrating her expertise and commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical practice. Her extensive experience enables her to provide expert guidance, diagnosis, and treatment for a wide range of women's health issues, combining evidence-based medicine with compassionate patient care.

Dr. Winsor’s clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. She is dedicated to empowering women in Hamilton to make informed choices about their health. Fluent in English and French, she strives to create a welcoming and understanding environment for all her patients, respecting their individual needs and cultural backgrounds. Her goal is to foster a trusting relationship, ensuring each woman feels supported and confident in her healthcare journey.

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

Infertility and Reproductive Health

• 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.
• Female Infertility Evaluation & Initial Management: Comprehensive assessment to identify potential causes of difficulty conceiving in women and initiation of basic treatments.

Gynecologic Cancers and Precancerous Conditions

• Vaginal Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VAIN) & Vaginal Cancer: Precancerous changes (VAIN) or rare cancers affecting the vagina.
• Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN) & Vulvar Cancer: Precancerous changes (VIN) or malignant tumors affecting the external female genitalia (vulva).
• Endometrial Hyperplasia & Uterine (Endometrial) Cancer: Precancerous thickening of the uterine lining (endometrial hyperplasia) or cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus (endometrium).

Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders

• Thyroid Disorders affecting Gynecologic Health: Conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism that can impact menstrual cycles, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes.
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) & Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): A collection of emotional and physical symptoms that occur in the one to two weeks before a woman's period, with PMDD being a more severe, debilitating form.
• 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. Stephanie Winsor or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• Tubal Ligation / Salpingectomy for Sterilization: Surgical methods for permanent female contraception, including removal of fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) which may also reduce ovarian cancer risk.
• Endometrial Ablation & Resection: Minimally invasive procedures to destroy or remove the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in appropriate candidates.
• 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 Menstrual Disorders & Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Diagnosis and treatment for conditions like heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), irregular periods, painful periods (dysmenorrhea), amenorrhea (absence of periods), and premenstrual syndrome (PMS)/PMDD.
• Hysterectomy (Abdominal, Vaginal, Laparoscopic, Robotic-Assisted): Surgical removal of the uterus, performed through various approaches including minimally invasive techniques, depending on the medical indication and patient factors.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Winsor 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. Winsor practices at Etobicoke General Hospital, located in the Westdale neighborhood of Hamilton, Ontario. The hospital is situated in the Ainslie Wood (McMaster University area), conveniently accessible from Hamilton Mountain Shopping Area and Lime Ridge Mall. Patients can reach the hospital via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR), making it easy to access public transportation. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring barrier-free access for all patients. Paid parking options are available nearby, providing convenient parking for visitors and patients attending appointments.

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

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

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

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. Winsor, discuss normal development, menstrual health, contraception, STI prevention, and answer any questions in a confidential setting.

Does Dr. Winsor support VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean)?

VBAC can be a safe option for many women who have had a previous Cesarean section. Dr. Winsor'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.

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

I have uterine fibroids. What treatment options might Dr. Winsor 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. Winsor will help you decide the best course of action.

Etobicoke General Hospital
1280 Main Street, Emergency Department
Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1

Phone: (905) 521-2100 | Fax: (905) 527-2675

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Winsor 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/Winsor-Stephanie-Heather-Malaika/0052450-66414