Dr. Susan Maureen Ollerhead Ellis – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Hamilton, ON

Specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Susan Maureen Ollerhead Ellis (an OBGYN) is committed to delivering personalized and evidence-based care to patients in Hamilton, fostering a supportive healthcare environment. Practicing at a clinic or hospital setting in Hamilton, ON, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. Her practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Ellis’s role encompasses providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, with a focus on supporting women through all stages of reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth.

She graduated with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in 1992 in Canada and has been practicing as a specialist in Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) since 1998, accumulating over 26 years of experience. Dr. Ellis is certified as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist, ensuring her practice aligns with national standards of excellence and patient safety.

Her clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and the application of evidence-based practices. Dr. Ellis is dedicated to improving women's health outcomes in Hamilton through compassionate, respectful, and individualized care. She primarily communicates in English and strives to create a welcoming environment where patients feel heard and supported throughout their healthcare journey.

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

Gynecologic Cancers and Precancerous Conditions

• Cervical Dysplasia (CIN) & Cervical Cancer: Precancerous changes (Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia) or malignant tumors of the cervix, the lowermost part of the uterus, often linked to HPV infection.
• Vaginal Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VAIN) & Vaginal Cancer: Precancerous changes (VAIN) or rare cancers affecting the vagina.
• Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD) (e.g., Molar Pregnancy): A group of rare pregnancy-related tumors that develop in the uterus from cells that normally form the placenta, requiring careful monitoring and treatment.

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

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.

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. Susan Ellis 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.
• Endometrial Ablation & Resection: Minimally invasive procedures to destroy or remove the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in appropriate candidates.
• Pelvic Pain Evaluation & Chronic Pelvic Pain Management: Comprehensive assessment and multidisciplinary treatment strategies for acute and chronic pelvic pain, identifying potential causes such as endometriosis, fibroids, or PID.
• 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.
• Basic Infertility Workup & Ovulation Tracking: Initial investigations into causes of infertility and guidance on tracking ovulation.
• Tubal Ligation / Salpingectomy for Sterilization: Surgical methods for permanent female contraception, including removal of fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) which may also reduce ovarian cancer risk.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Ellis 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. Ellis practices in a clinic setting located in the Corktown neighborhood of Hamilton, ON. The facility is situated close to Hamilton General Hospital and Eastgate Square (East End), making it convenient for patients in the area. Accessible via the Hamilton Street Railway (HSR), the clinic is wheelchair accessible and offers a welcoming environment for all patients. Metered street parking is available nearby, providing easy access for those coming by car. The practice is committed to providing high-quality care in a comfortable and accessible setting, ensuring that women of all ages feel supported throughout their reproductive health journey.

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

What are some common gynecological surgeries Dr. Ellis 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. Ellis will discuss if surgery is appropriate for your condition and explain the specific procedure, risks, and benefits.

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

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

Dr. Ellis 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. Ellis during your prenatal visits.

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

Suite 306, 301 James St S
Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6

Phone: (905) 521-6041 | Fax: (905) 383-3336

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Ellis 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/Ellis-Susan-Maureen-Ollerhead/0051194-65173