29 Jul

New Canadian Guidelines for Endometriosis: What Patients Need to Know

The Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada (SOGC) has released updated clinical practice guidelines for managing endometriosis, emphasizing that care should be personalized, coordinated and focused on each patient’s goals.

Endometriosis affects many people of reproductive age and occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. It can cause pelvic pain, painful periods, pain with intercourse, bowel or bladder symptoms, fatigue and challenges with fertility.

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By Chronic Disease & Prevention, Women's Health Comments Off
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17 Jun

Before Baby: How a Father’s Health Before Pregnancy Can Shape a Child’s Future

At Orleans Family Health Clinic, we care about your health before, during, and after pregnancy—and that includes dads-to-be.

A compelling new study from the University of Toronto is changing the way we think about family health. Researchers found that a father’s weight at the time of conception can influence a child’s growth and long-term risk of obesity—and not just in small ways.

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By Family Health, Women's Health Comments Off
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23 Mar

For Women, There’s a Link Between Burnout and Depression

At Orleans Family Health Clinic, we know that conversations about women’s health extend far beyond physical checkups. Increasingly, research highlights the connection between burnout and depression—especially among women, who often juggle overlapping responsibilities at work, at home, and in caregiving roles.

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By Mental Health, Women's Health Comments Off
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01 Mar

Endometriosis Awareness Month: What Every Patient — and Every Primary Care Provider — Should Know

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, and at Orleans Family Health Clinic, we believe that awareness without access to care is incomplete. Endometriosis affects approximately 1 in 10 women and people assigned female at birth in Canada — an estimated 1 million Canadians — yet the average time from symptom onset to confirmed diagnosis remains over five years. That delay is not inevitable. With better education, earlier recognition, and a trusted primary care relationship, we can close that gap together.

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By Women's Health Comments Off
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04 Feb

Mattel’s Autistic Barbie: Inclusion Sparks Conversation

Mattel’s newest addition to its Fashionista line, autistic Barbie, is being hailed as a step forward in toy inclusivity. Developed in collaboration with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), the doll features stimming hands, a slightly averted gaze to mimic some autistic people’s tendency to avoid direct eye contact, a detachable fidget spinner, noise-canceling headphones, and a tablet displaying symbol-based Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) apps.
The doll wears an A-line dress with short sleeves and flat shoes to reduce fabric-to-skin contact and promote ease of movement. Its facial features were inspired by Mattel employees in India, reflecting an effort to combine neurodiverse and cultural representation.

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By Family Health, Women's Health Comments Off
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26 Nov

PCOS: A Silent but Serious Threat to Women’s Health

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects approximately 1 in 10 Canadian women, yet more than half of those affected are undiagnosed. At Orleans Family Health Clinic (OFHC), we believe it’s time to change that.

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects ovarian function, menstrual cycles, and fertility. But its impact goes far beyond reproductive health. PCOS is linked to higher risks of pregnancy complications, obesity, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and mental health concerns like anxiety and depression.

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By Women's Health Comments Off
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17 Nov

Cannabis Use During Pregnancy: An Avoidable Risk with Lifelong Consequences

Pregnancy is a time of joy, hope, and dedication to the well-being of a new life. Expectant parents are naturally motivated to make choices that give their baby the best possible start—whether that means adjusting diet, changing daily routines, or avoiding harmful substances.

However, despite growing medical evidence about its risks, cannabis use during pregnancy remains a concern. Recent data from the Better Outcomes Registry and Network (BORN), published in JAMA Open, shows that cannabis use in pregnancy in Ontario increased from 1.2% in 2012 to 4.2% in 2022. Other studies suggest underreporting, with actual usage possibly closer to 36% in some groups.

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By Women's Health Comments Off
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29 Sep

Acetaminophen Use in Pregnancy: Addressing Patient Concerns with Evidence-Based Facts

In recent years, headlines in the media have sparked concerns among expectant parents regarding the safety of over-the-counter medications, particularly acetaminophen (often known by brand names like Tylenol) during pregnancy. Reports have suggested a possible, though unproven, link between acetaminophen use and conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

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By Women's Health Comments Off
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