Dr. Brian Paul Fitzsimmons – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Vancouver, BC

As a skilled Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), Dr. Brian Paul Fitzsimmons offers a full spectrum of services from routine gynecological exams to managing complex obstetrical cases, prioritizing patient well-being and informed choice. Practicing at BC Women's Hospital & Health Centre in Vancouver, BC, he provides accessible and high-quality care to the community. Dr. Fitzsimmons adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring safe and ethical practice. His 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.

Dr. Fitzsimmons graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Calgary in 1993 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology. He holds certifications including the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to maintaining high standards of clinical expertise and ongoing professional development. His training and experience enable him to offer evidence-based, compassionate care tailored to each patient's unique needs.

Dedicated to women’s health in Vancouver, Dr. Fitzsimmons emphasizes patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and a respectful, empathetic approach. He speaks English fluently and strives to create a supportive environment where women feel comfortable discussing sensitive health concerns. His clinical philosophy centers around empowering women with information and options to make informed choices about their reproductive health and well-being.

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

Pelvic Floor and Urinary Disorders

• Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Frequent infections of the urinary system, requiring investigation for underlying causes and preventative strategies.
• Interstitial Cystitis / Painful Bladder Syndrome (IC/PBS): A chronic condition causing bladder pressure, bladder pain, and sometimes pelvic pain, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain.
• Fecal Incontinence (Accidental Bowel Leakage): The inability to control bowel movements, leading to unexpected leakage of stool from the rectum.

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

Sexual Health and Dysfunction

• Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse): Persistent or recurrent genital pain that occurs just before, during or after sexual intercourse.
• Vaginismus: Involuntary muscle spasms in the pelvic floor muscles that make vaginal penetration painful or impossible.
• Decreased Libido / Sexual Desire Disorders: Persistent lack of sexual interest or desire, which can have various physical or psychological causes.

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. Brian Fitzsimmons or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• External Cephalic Version (ECV) for Breech Presentation: Procedure to attempt to turn a breech baby to a head-down position before labor, if appropriate.
• Tubal Ligation / Salpingectomy for Sterilization: Surgical methods for permanent female contraception, including removal of fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) which may also reduce ovarian cancer risk.
• Annual Gynecological Exams & Well-Woman Care: Routine check-ups including pelvic exams, clinical breast exams, preventative health screenings, and discussion of overall gynecological health.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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).
• Postpartum Care & Follow-up: Medical follow-up and support for mothers in the weeks following childbirth, addressing physical recovery, incision care (if applicable), breastfeeding support, contraception planning, and screening for postpartum mood disorders.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Fitzsimmons 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 British Columbia (CPSBC). A referral may be required for insured services.

Dr. Fitzsimmons practices at the BC Women's Hospital & Health Centre, located in the vibrant Fairview neighborhood of Vancouver. The facility is conveniently situated near the Granville Bridge, making it accessible from various parts of the city. Patients can reach the hospital easily via TransLink services, including the SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as by bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The hospital is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are available nearby, providing flexibility for those driving to appointments.

Are services from Dr. Fitzsimmons, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations, prenatal care, delivery, gynecological surgeries, and diagnostic procedures performed by a licensed Obstetrician and Gynecologist like Dr. Fitzsimmons are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP) or the clinic.

Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Fitzsimmons, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist?

Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Obstetrician and Gynecologist like Dr. Fitzsimmons 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. Fitzsimmons's office or your referring doctor.

Does Dr. Fitzsimmons discuss or offer the HPV vaccine?

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is highly effective in preventing infections with HPV types that cause most cervical cancers, as well as other anogenital and oropharyngeal cancers. Dr. Fitzsimmons can discuss the benefits of the HPV vaccine, current recommendations for different age groups (including catch-up vaccination for adults), and can either provide the vaccine or refer you to where it can be obtained, depending on clinic services and provincial programs.

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. Fitzsimmons will advise you on the appropriate screening schedule for your individual circumstances based on current provincial guidelines.

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

BC Women's Hospital & Health Centre
Suite 1407, 750 West Broadway, Fairmont Building
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1J4

Phone: (604) 872-1260 | Fax: (604) 872-1261

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Fitzsimmons is a licensed Obstetrician and Gynecologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. 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 British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/311102/Fitzsimmons%2CBrian