Dr Suelyn Lai-Smith Gynaecologist Sydney
- 02 9487 2718
- Dr Suelyn Lai-Smith BSc (Psych) Hons B Medicine (Newcastle) FRANZCOG
Dr Sandra Marques Nascimento Fonseca is a dedicated Obstetrician and Gynaecologist practising at Life Bedford Gardens Hospital in Bedfordview. Born and raised in Johannesburg, she was deeply influenced by the loss of her mother to cervical cancer at a young age. This personal experience ignited her passion for women’s health, leading her to specialise in Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
Her medical journey began with a Bachelor of Pharmacy from the University of the Witwatersrand, followed by seven years as a retail pharmacist. However, her desire to make a greater impact in patient care led her back to Wits, where she earned her Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery in 2008.
She completed her medical internship and community service at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, where she developed a deep interest in both the joy of childbirth and the life-saving medical and surgical interventions required in women’s healthcare.
Dr Fonseca trained extensively at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic, Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic, Rahima Moosa Mother and Child, Klerksdorp, Sebokeng, and Edenvale Hospitals, gaining expertise in all aspects of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. She became a Fellow of the College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of South Africa in 2016.
She later worked as a consultant at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, where she was involved in training medical students, interns, and registrars before transitioning to private practice. In 2017, she joined Gynomed, a group of specialists providing comprehensive care with 24/7 emergency cover at Life Wilgeheuwel Hospital and Life Bedford Gardens Hospital. Gynomed also operates Fertilite, an affiliated fertility clinic offering IVF services at Life Wilgeheuwel.
Dr Fonseca is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the University of the Witwatersrand. She believes in evidence-based medicine and a multi-disciplinary approach to ensure the best outcomes for her patients.
Dr Fonseca is fluent in English, Afrikaans, Portuguese, and French, allowing her to communicate effectively with a diverse range of patients.
