FRCSC - Fellow, Royal College of Surgeons Canada - Obstetrics & Gynecology
Description
About Dr. Amanda Aiken
As a skilled Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), Dr. Amanda Aiken offers a full spectrum of services from routine gynecological exams to managing complex obstetrical cases, prioritizing patient well-being and informed choice. Practicing at Hy's Centre in Edmonton, AB, she provides accessible and high-quality care to the community. Her practice adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Aiken's focus is on providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, ensuring women of all ages, including prenatal and postnatal patients, receive personalized and compassionate care.
Dr. Aiken graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Manitoba in 2007, Canada. She completed extensive postgraduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology, gaining in-depth expertise in women's reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. She holds key certifications including Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC) and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC), reflecting her commitment to maintaining high professional standards and ongoing education.
Her clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. Dr. Aiken is dedicated to promoting women's health in Edmonton through thorough consultations, respectful communication, and tailored treatment plans. She speaks fluent English and is committed to creating a welcoming environment where patients feel empowered and informed about their health choices.
Common Conditions Dr. Amanda Aiken Addresses
Dr. Amanda Aiken provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:
Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders
- 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.
- Thyroid Disorders affecting Gynecologic Health: Conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism that can impact menstrual cycles, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes.
- Amenorrhea (Absence of Menstruation): The absence of menstrual periods, either primary (menarche never occurred) or secondary (periods ceased after previously being regular).
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.
- Endometrial Hyperplasia & Uterine (Endometrial) Cancer: Precancerous thickening of the uterine lining (endometrial hyperplasia) or cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus (endometrium).
- Vaginal Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VAIN) & Vaginal Cancer: Precancerous changes (VAIN) or rare cancers affecting the vagina.
Sexual Health and Dysfunction
- Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse): Persistent or recurrent genital pain that occurs just before, during or after sexual intercourse.
- 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.
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. Amanda Aiken or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.
Obstetrics and Gynecology Services Offered by Dr. Amanda Aiken
- Basic Infertility Workup & Ovulation Tracking: Initial investigations into causes of infertility and guidance on tracking ovulation.
- Pap Tests, HPV Testing & Cervical Cancer Screening (Colposcopy, LEEP): Cervical cancer screening through Pap tests and HPV testing, with follow-up diagnostic procedures like colposcopy and treatment for precancerous changes (e.g., LEEP - Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure).
- Tubal Ligation / Salpingectomy for Sterilization: Surgical methods for permanent female contraception, including removal of fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) which may also reduce ovarian cancer risk.
- Diagnosis & Treatment of Vaginal Infections & Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Management of conditions such as yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and screening/treatment for STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV counseling.
- Endometrial Biopsy: Office procedure to take a small sample of the uterine lining (endometrium) for diagnostic purposes, often for abnormal bleeding or suspected abnormalities.
- Diagnostic & Operative Hysteroscopy: Procedure using a thin, lighted scope to examine the inside of the uterus and perform minor surgical treatments such as polyp removal, fibroid resection, or septum correction.
- Labor and Delivery Management (Vaginal & Cesarean): Professional medical care and support during labor and childbirth, including management of vaginal deliveries, assisted vaginal deliveries (forceps/vacuum if needed), and planned or emergency Cesarean sections (C-sections).
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Aiken 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 Alberta (CPSA). A referral may be required for insured services.
Practice Location & Accessibility
Dr. Aiken practices at Hy's Centre, situated in the N Central: Queen Mary Park, Central McDougall, Blatchford Area neighborhood of Edmonton. The clinic is conveniently located near the Botanical Gardens (Pyramids) and is easily accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring barrier-free access for all patients. Metered street parking is available nearby for those arriving by car. The clinic’s central location makes it easy for women from various parts of Edmonton to access comprehensive obstetric and gynecological care in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Obstetrics and Gynecology Care
- Are services from Dr. Aiken, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations, prenatal care, delivery, gynecological surgeries, and diagnostic procedures performed by a licensed Obstetrician and Gynecologist like Dr. Aiken are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) or the clinic.
- Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Aiken, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist?
- Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Obstetrician and Gynecologist like Dr. Aiken 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. Aiken's office or your referring doctor.
- At which hospital(s) does Dr. Aiken deliver babies or perform surgeries?
- Dr. Aiken is affiliated with affiliated local hospitals. You can confirm the specific hospital(s) where she performs deliveries and gynecological surgeries by contacting Dr. Aiken's office directly. This information is important for planning your care and delivery.
- 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. Aiken will advise you on the appropriate screening schedule for your individual circumstances based on current provincial guidelines.
Contact & Licensing Information
Hy's Centre
11230 110 St NW, B1
Edmonton, AB T5G 3H7
Phone: (780) 414-0782
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Aiken is a licensed Obstetrician and Gynecologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. 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 Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=904c2b36-847f-42ce-8a19-facf5460eb57&i=38