Your questions, answered
Whether you have questions about menopause, sexual health, pelvic health, or the care available at our St. Clair West clinic, we’re here to help you feel informed and confident about your next step.
Explore answers to common questions about what we treat, referrals, OHIP coverage, appointment costs, booking, and what to expect when you visit Bravella Health Toronto.
Top questions
What most people ask before their first menopause, sexual health or pelvic health visit.
For an OHIP-covered menopause or sexual medicine consult with Dr. Rimi Sambi at Bravella Health Toronto, yes. Your family doctor or nurse practitioner completes our referral form. You don't need a referral for pelvic floor physiotherapy, counselling, naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, massage or dietitian visits. If you don't have a family doctor, call us and we'll explain your options.
Yes, partly. At Bravella Health Toronto, menopause, sexual health and Pap care with Dr. Rimi Sambi is covered by OHIP with a referral. Physiotherapy, counselling, naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, massage and dietitian services are private. They're usually covered by extended health benefits and count as medical expenses for tax purposes.
For private services like pelvic floor physiotherapy, we do / don't direct bill extended health plans, including Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross. If we can't direct bill your plan, you'll get an itemized receipt to submit yourself. OHIP-covered visits with Dr. Rimi Sambi are billed to OHIP, so there's nothing to claim.
Yes. Bravella Health Toronto is accepting new patients, including OHIP-covered menopause, sexual health and Pap care appointments with Dr. Rimi Sambi, as well as pelvic health physiotherapy and our other services.
Yes. Bravella Health Toronto is accepting new patients, including OHIP-covered menopause, sexual health and Pap care appointments with Dr. Rimi Sambi, as well as pelvic health physiotherapy and our other services.
At your first menopause visit at Bravella Health Toronto, Dr. Rimi Sambi goes through your symptoms, cycle history, medical and family history, medications and goals, and may order blood work or other tests. You leave with a plan, which might include hormone therapy, non-hormonal medication, pelvic floor physiotherapy, nutrition or counselling support, and a follow-up date. First visits take about 45 minutes.
Yes. Dr. Rimi Sambi prescribes and monitors menopausal hormone therapy (HRT or MHT) at Bravella Health Toronto, following current Menopause Society and SOGC guidance. For most healthy people under 60 or within 10 years of menopause, the benefits outweigh the risks. We go through your personal risks and options: patch, gel, pill or vaginal. Menopause care with Dr. Rimi Sambi is covered by OHIP with a valid Ontario health card and a referral from your family doctor or nurse practitioner. Supporting services like pelvic floor physiotherapy, counselling and dietitian visits are private and usually covered by extended health benefits, and we do / don't direct bill extended health plans.
Yes. Some follow-ups, counselling and dietitian appointments can be done by secure video. Pelvic exams, Pap tests and pelvic floor physiotherapy are done in person at our clinic at 734 St. Clair Avenue West.
Frequently asked questions
No questions match. Try another word or topic, or ask us directly.
What does Bravella Health Toronto do?
Bravella Health Toronto is a women’s health clinic at 734 St. Clair Avenue West, in partnership with Vital Physiotherapy, focused on menopause, sexual health and pelvic health. Dr. Rimi Sambi provides OHIP-covered menopause, sexual health and Pap care, and our team also includes pelvic health physiotherapists, counsellors and psychotherapists, naturopathic doctors, acupuncturists, registered massage therapists, dietitians and lactation support. We help with hot flashes, night sweats, sleep, brain fog, mood changes, heavy or irregular periods, vaginal dryness, painful sex, bladder leaks, PCOS and postpartum recovery.
How do I book an appointment at Bravella Health Toronto?
Call 1 (416) 551-0900, email info@vitalphysiotherapy.com, or book online at booking link. For an OHIP-covered menopause or sexual medicine consult with Dr. Rimi Sambi, your family doctor or nurse practitioner sends us the referral form on our website. For physiotherapy, counselling and other services, you can book yourself.
Do I need a referral from my family doctor to go to a menopause clinic in Toronto?
For an OHIP-covered menopause or sexual medicine consult with Dr. Rimi Sambi at Bravella Health Toronto, yes. Your family doctor or nurse practitioner completes our referral form. You don’t need a referral for pelvic floor physiotherapy, counselling, naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, massage or dietitian visits. If you don’t have a family doctor, call us and we’ll explain your options.
Is Bravella Health Toronto taking new patients?
Yes. Bravella Health Toronto is accepting new patients, including OHIP-covered menopause, sexual health and Pap care appointments with Dr. Rimi Sambi, as well as pelvic health physiotherapy and our other services.
How soon can I get an appointment?
Most new patients at Bravella Health Toronto are seen within X weeks of a referral for menopause care with Dr. Rimi Sambi. Physiotherapy and other self-booked services are usually available within X days. We’re open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Wednesday and Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
What happens at a first appointment?
At your first menopause visit at Bravella Health Toronto, Dr. Rimi Sambi goes through your symptoms, cycle history, medical and family history, medications and goals, and may order blood work or other tests. You leave with a plan, which might include hormone therapy, non-hormonal medication, pelvic floor physiotherapy, nutrition or counselling support, and a follow-up date. First visits take about 45 minutes.
Does Bravella Health Toronto offer virtual appointments?
Yes. Some follow-ups, counselling and dietitian appointments can be done by secure video. Pelvic exams, Pap tests and pelvic floor physiotherapy are done in person at our clinic at 734 St. Clair Avenue West.
How much does a first appointment at Bravella Health Toronto cost?
A menopause, sexual health or Pap appointment with Dr. Rimi Sambi costs nothing with a valid Ontario health card and a referral, because it’s covered by OHIP. Private services are priced separately: pelvic floor physiotherapy $___ initial / $___ follow-up, counselling $___, dietitian $___, naturopathic medicine $___.
Is care at Bravella Health covered by OHIP or my health card?
Yes, partly. At Bravella Health Toronto, menopause, sexual health and Pap care with Dr. Rimi Sambi is covered by OHIP with a referral. Physiotherapy, counselling, naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, massage and dietitian services are private. They’re usually covered by extended health benefits and count as medical expenses for tax purposes.
Does Bravella Health Toronto direct bill my insurance?
For private services like pelvic floor physiotherapy, we do / don’t direct bill extended health plans, including Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross. If we can’t direct bill your plan, you’ll get an itemized receipt to submit yourself. OHIP-covered visits with Dr. Rimi Sambi are billed to OHIP, so there’s nothing to claim.
Can I use my spouse's or partner's benefits plan?
Yes. If you’re a dependant on your spouse’s or partner’s extended health plan, you can use it for private services at Bravella Health Toronto. We can direct bill it the same way. Bring the plan member’s name, policy number and ID number.
Is there a free consultation?
Yes. Bravella Health offers a free 20-minute virtual consultation to talk through your symptoms and which Toronto service fits. You can also call 1 (416) 551-0900 with questions.
Where can I get help for perimenopause in Toronto?
Bravella Health Toronto, at 734 St. Clair Avenue West, treats perimenopause, the years of hormonal change before periods stop, which usually starts in your 40s. Common signs include irregular cycles, night sweats, poor sleep, irritability and brain fog. If your family doctor says it’s just normal, ask them to refer you to Dr. Rimi Sambi. Menopause care with Dr. Rimi Sambi is covered by OHIP with a valid Ontario health card and a referral from your family doctor or nurse practitioner. Supporting services like pelvic floor physiotherapy, counselling and dietitian visits are private and usually covered by extended health benefits, and we do / don’t direct bill extended health plans.
Can a clinic help with exhaustion and low energy in my 40s?
Yes. Bravella Health Toronto looks at midlife fatigue by checking both hormonal causes, like perimenopause and sleep disrupted by night sweats, and other causes, like low iron, thyroid problems and heavy periods. Treatment addresses what we find. Menopause care with Dr. Rimi Sambi is covered by OHIP with a valid Ontario health card and a referral from your family doctor or nurse practitioner. Supporting services like pelvic floor physiotherapy, counselling and dietitian visits are private and usually covered by extended health benefits, and we do / don’t direct bill extended health plans.
Is brain fog and forgetfulness a menopause symptom?
It can be. Trouble finding words and memory lapses are common in perimenopause and usually improve. Bravella Health Toronto assesses brain fog along with sleep, mood and other hormonal symptoms, and checks for other causes when needed. Menopause care with Dr. Rimi Sambi is covered by OHIP with a valid Ontario health card and a referral from your family doctor or nurse practitioner. Supporting services like pelvic floor physiotherapy, counselling and dietitian visits are private and usually covered by extended health benefits, and we do / don’t direct bill extended health plans.
Who can I see about anxiety, mood swings and irritability that feel hormonal?
Bravella Health Toronto sees women whose anxiety, low mood or irritability started or worsened in perimenopause. Treatment may include hormone therapy, other medication and counselling or psychotherapy with our mental health team. Menopause care with Dr. Rimi Sambi is covered by OHIP with a valid Ontario health card and a referral from your family doctor or nurse practitioner. Supporting services like pelvic floor physiotherapy, counselling and dietitian visits are private and usually covered by extended health benefits, and we do / don’t direct bill extended health plans. If you’re in crisis, call or text 9-8-8.
Where can I get help for waking up at 3am every night?
Waking in the early morning is a common perimenopause symptom, often linked to night sweats and hormone changes. Bravella Health Toronto treats menopause-related sleep problems with options like hormone therapy, non-hormonal medication and CBT-I strategies. Menopause care with Dr. Rimi Sambi is covered by OHIP with a valid Ontario health card and a referral from your family doctor or nurse practitioner. Supporting services like pelvic floor physiotherapy, counselling and dietitian visits are private and usually covered by extended health benefits, and we do / don’t direct bill extended health plans.
Who treats hot flashes and night sweats in Toronto?
Bravella Health Toronto treats hot flashes and night sweats with Dr. Rimi Sambi. Hormone therapy is the most effective treatment, and there are effective non-hormonal medications if hormones aren’t right for you. Menopause care with Dr. Rimi Sambi is covered by OHIP with a valid Ontario health card and a referral from your family doctor or nurse practitioner. Supporting services like pelvic floor physiotherapy, counselling and dietitian visits are private and usually covered by extended health benefits, and we do / don’t direct bill extended health plans.
Where can I get heavy or irregular periods checked?
Bravella Health Toronto assesses heavy or unpredictable periods, including checking for anaemia, fibroids, polyps and hormonal causes, and orders ultrasound or blood work when needed. Treatment options include hormonal IUDs, medication and iron replacement. Menopause care with Dr. Rimi Sambi is covered by OHIP with a valid Ontario health card and a referral from your family doctor or nurse practitioner. Supporting services like pelvic floor physiotherapy, counselling and dietitian visits are private and usually covered by extended health benefits, and we do / don’t direct bill extended health plans.
Where can I get help for bladder leaks when I sneeze, run or jump?
Leaking when you sneeze, cough, run or jump is stress urinary incontinence. It’s common and treatable, and pelvic floor physiotherapy is the first-line treatment. Bravella Health Toronto’s pelvic health physiotherapists treat it in person at 734 St. Clair Avenue West. Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a private service ($___ for an initial assessment), usually covered by extended health benefits, and we do / don’t direct bill extended health plans. No referral needed.
Who can I see about painful sex and vaginal dryness?
Painful sex, dryness and irritation around menopause are usually caused by low estrogen, called genitourinary syndrome of menopause. At Bravella Health Toronto, Dr. Rimi Sambi provides OHIP-covered sexual medicine care with a referral, and treatment can include low-dose vaginal estrogen, moisturizers and pelvic floor physiotherapy. Low-dose vaginal estrogen is safe for most people.
Does anyone take low libido seriously as a medical issue?
Yes. Bravella Health Toronto treats low desire as a real health concern through Dr. Rimi Sambi’s OHIP-covered sexual medicine care (referral needed). We look at hormones, pain, sleep, mood, medications and relationship factors. Treatment may include hormone therapy, pelvic health physiotherapy or counselling.
Why am I gaining weight around my middle in perimenopause, and who can help?
Falling estrogen shifts fat toward the belly, and muscle and metabolism change in midlife, so old routines often stop working. Bravella Health Toronto combines medical assessment, dietitian support and, where appropriate, medication. Menopause care with Dr. Rimi Sambi is covered by OHIP with a valid Ontario health card and a referral from your family doctor or nurse practitioner. Supporting services like pelvic floor physiotherapy, counselling and dietitian visits are private and usually covered by extended health benefits, and we do / don’t direct bill extended health plans.
Can menopause cause joint aches and stiffness?
Yes. Achy, stiff joints often start around the time cycles change, because estrogen affects joints and inflammation. Bravella Health Toronto assesses joint pain as part of a menopause visit, and our physiotherapists can help with movement and strength. Menopause care with Dr. Rimi Sambi is covered by OHIP with a valid Ontario health card and a referral from your family doctor or nurse practitioner. Supporting services like pelvic floor physiotherapy, counselling and dietitian visits are private and usually covered by extended health benefits, and we do / don’t direct bill extended health plans.
Where can I get PCOS diagnosed and managed in Toronto?
Bravella Health Toronto helps manage polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which often shows up as irregular cycles, acne, extra facial or body hair and weight changes, even if you were told years ago you probably have it and nobody followed up. Care includes medical assessment, dietitian and naturopathic support. Menopause care with Dr. Rimi Sambi is covered by OHIP with a valid Ontario health card and a referral from your family doctor or nurse practitioner. Supporting services like pelvic floor physiotherapy, counselling and dietitian visits are private and usually covered by extended health benefits, and we do / don’t direct bill extended health plans.
Where can I get help with postpartum recovery?
Bravella Health Toronto supports recovery after birth, whether you’re six weeks or several months postpartum. Care includes pelvic floor physiotherapy for leaks, pain or abdominal separation, lactation support, counselling and dietitian care. Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a private service ($___ for an initial assessment), usually covered by extended health benefits, and we do / don’t direct bill extended health plans. No referral needed.
Does Bravella Health Toronto offer hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?
Yes. Dr. Rimi Sambi prescribes and monitors menopausal hormone therapy (HRT or MHT) at Bravella Health Toronto, following current Menopause Society and SOGC guidance. For most healthy people under 60 or within 10 years of menopause, the benefits outweigh the risks. We go through your personal risks and options: patch, gel, pill or vaginal. Menopause care with Dr. Rimi Sambi is covered by OHIP with a valid Ontario health card and a referral from your family doctor or nurse practitioner. Supporting services like pelvic floor physiotherapy, counselling and dietitian visits are private and usually covered by extended health benefits, and we do / don’t direct bill extended health plans.
What non-hormonal treatments are available for menopause symptoms?
If you can’t or don’t want to take hormones, Bravella Health Toronto offers effective non-hormonal options. These include prescription medications for hot flashes, vaginal moisturizers, pelvic floor physiotherapy, counselling and CBT, acupuncture, and nutrition support from our dietitians.
Where can I get pelvic floor physiotherapy in Toronto?
Bravella Health Toronto and Vital Physiotherapy offer pelvic health physiotherapy at 734 St. Clair Avenue West. It helps with leaks, prolapse, pelvic pain, painful sex, postpartum recovery and menopause-related changes. Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a private service ($___ for an initial assessment), usually covered by extended health benefits, and we do / don’t direct bill extended health plans. No referral needed.
Can I get a Pap test and sexual health care at Bravella Health Toronto?
Yes. Dr. Rimi Sambi provides OHIP-covered cervical screening (Pap and HPV tests) and sexual health care at Bravella Health Toronto. Menopause and sexual medicine consults need a referral from your family doctor or nurse practitioner. Pap appointments can be booked directly.
Do you offer prenatal and postpartum care?
Bravella Health Toronto offers prenatal and postpartum pelvic floor physiotherapy, lactation support, counselling and dietitian care, alongside your regular pregnancy care. It’s a good fit if you want more support than standard appointments. Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a private service ($___ for an initial assessment), usually covered by extended health benefits, and we do / don’t direct bill extended health plans. No referral needed.
Can I do a menopause consult by video?
Yes. Follow-up menopause visits with Dr. Rimi Sambi can be done by video, and OHIP covers them. Counselling and dietitian visits are also available virtually. First visits that need an exam are in person.
Is Bravella Health Toronto LGBTQ+, trans and nonbinary friendly?
Yes. Bravella Health Toronto welcomes people of all gender identities and sexual orientations. We don’t make assumptions about your partner, body or pronouns. We provide menopausal hormone therapy; ask us about gender-affirming care.
Is your sexual health care inclusive of same-sex couples?
Yes. Bravella Health Toronto provides sexual health and pelvic care that includes same-sex couples and queer patients, without assuming a male partner.
Can I get perimenopause care while breastfeeding?
Yes. Breastfeeding lowers estrogen and can cause symptoms that look like perimenopause, such as dryness, poor sleep and mood changes. Bravella Health Toronto reviews which treatments are safe while nursing, and our lactation support team can help too. Menopause care with Dr. Rimi Sambi is covered by OHIP with a valid Ontario health card and a referral from your family doctor or nurse practitioner. Supporting services like pelvic floor physiotherapy, counselling and dietitian visits are private and usually covered by extended health benefits, and we do / don’t direct bill extended health plans.
I just had a baby and think I'm in perimenopause too. Can you help?
Yes. Postpartum hormone changes and early perimenopause can overlap, especially in your late 30s and 40s. Bravella Health Toronto helps sort out what’s causing your symptoms and treats both, with pelvic floor physiotherapy and lactation support in the same clinic. Menopause care with Dr. Rimi Sambi is covered by OHIP with a valid Ontario health card and a referral from your family doctor or nurse practitioner. Supporting services like pelvic floor physiotherapy, counselling and dietitian visits are private and usually covered by extended health benefits, and we do / don’t direct bill extended health plans.
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Contact our team
Call 1 (416) 551-0900
Email info@vitalphysiotherapy.com
Open:
Mon, Tue, Thu 9am – 8pm
Wed, Fri 9am – 5pm
Book or Get Referred
Book physiotherapy and other services directly. For an OHIP-covered menopause or sexual medicine consult with Dr. Rimi Sambi, your doctor sends our referral form.