Dr. Carl Adam Severson – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Terrace, BC

Dr. Carl Adam Severson is a dedicated Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) providing comprehensive care for women's reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. He offers a patient-focused approach to manage a wide spectrum of conditions. Practicing at a clinic and/or hospital setting in Terrace, BC, he offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. His practice adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, Dr. Severson is committed to supporting women through every stage of life, from adolescence through menopause and beyond. His focus includes both preventive health and treatment of acute and chronic gynecological issues, as well as pregnancy management and childbirth support.

Dr. Severson graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Calgary in 2017 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology. He holds certifications including membership with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to maintaining high standards of medical excellence and continuous professional development.

Dedicated to patient-centered care, Dr. Severson emphasizes shared decision-making, evidence-based practices, and personalized treatment plans. He is committed to promoting women's health in Terrace with compassion and respect. Fluent in English, he strives to create a welcoming environment for all patients seeking obstetric and gynecological care.

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

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.
• Vaginal Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VAIN) & Vaginal Cancer: Precancerous changes (VAIN) or rare cancers affecting the vagina.
• Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN) & Vulvar Cancer: Precancerous changes (VIN) or malignant tumors affecting the external female genitalia (vulva).

Sexual Health and Dysfunction

• Vaginismus: Involuntary muscle spasms in the pelvic floor muscles that make vaginal penetration painful or impossible.
• 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.

Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders

• Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (Heavy, Irregular, Prolonged Periods): Menstrual bleeding that is different in frequency, duration, or amount than what is typical for an individual, requiring investigation.
• Hyperprolactinemia: Elevated levels of prolactin in the blood, which can interfere with menstruation and fertility.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular periods, excess androgen levels, and/or polycystic ovaries on ultrasound.

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. Carl Severson or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• Endometrial Biopsy: Office procedure to take a small sample of the uterine lining (endometrium) for diagnostic purposes, often for abnormal bleeding or suspected abnormalities.
• Annual Gynecological Exams & Well-Woman Care: Routine check-ups including pelvic exams, clinical breast exams, preventative health screenings, and discussion of overall gynecological health.
• External Cephalic Version (ECV) for Breech Presentation: Procedure to attempt to turn a breech baby to a head-down position before labor, if appropriate.
• Preconception Counseling & Health Optimization: Guidance and health optimization for individuals or couples planning a pregnancy, including discussion of folic acid supplementation, chronic medical conditions, genetic carrier screening, and lifestyle factors.
• Menopause & Perimenopause Symptom Management: Personalized guidance and treatment options for symptoms associated with menopause, including hot flashes, vaginal dryness, sleep issues, and discussion of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and non-hormonal alternatives.
• Management of Common Pregnancy Complications: Diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (hyperemesis gravidarum), gestational diabetes (in conjunction with specialists if needed), hypertensive disorders, and preterm labor risk assessment and prevention strategies.
• 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. Severson 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. Severson practices in a modern clinic located in the areas near central Terrace, providing convenient access for residents of Terrace and surrounding communities. The facility is situated within a clinic or hospital setting that is close to local points of interest and easily accessible via local public transit routes. The location is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for patients with mobility needs. Paid parking options are available nearby, making it simple for patients to attend appointments without concern for parking.

Are services from Dr. Severson, 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. Severson 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. Severson, 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. Severson 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. Severson's office or your referring doctor.

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

What birth control options can Dr. Severson discuss with me?

Dr. Severson can discuss a wide range of contraceptive options tailored to your individual needs and preferences. These include hormonal methods (like birth control pills, patches, vaginal rings, injections, hormonal IUDs, contraceptive implants), non-hormonal methods (like copper IUDs, condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps), and permanent sterilization methods (tubal ligation or Essure for women, vasectomy referral for men). The best option depends on your health, lifestyle, menstrual cycle characteristics, and family planning goals. Dr. Severson will help you make an informed choice.

120-4720 Lazelle Ave
Terrace, BC V8G 1T2

Phone: (250) 615-5121 | Fax: (778) 505-2455

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Severson 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/376026/Severson%2CCarl