Dr. Catherine Allaire – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Vancouver, BC

As a skilled Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), Dr. Catherine Allaire offers a full spectrum of services from routine gynecological exams to managing complex obstetrical cases, prioritizing patient well-being and informed choice. Practicing at a clinic and/or hospital setting in Vancouver, BC, she provides accessible and high-quality care to the community. She adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) to ensure safe and effective treatment. Dr. Allaire's role encompasses providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, with a focus on women's health, pregnancy, and childbirth. She is dedicated to supporting women of all ages, including prenatal and postnatal care, in a respectful and compassionate manner.

Dr. Allaire graduated with a MD CM from McGill University in 1990 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She holds certifications including: Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring her qualifications meet the highest national standards for specialty practice. Her ongoing commitment to professional development enables her to stay current with advances in women's health and obstetrical care.

Driven by a philosophy of patient-centered care, Dr. Allaire values shared decision-making, evidence-based practice, and personalized treatment plans. She is dedicated to promoting women's health and well-being in Vancouver through compassionate, respectful, and comprehensive care. Fluent in English and French, she strives to communicate clearly and effectively with her diverse patient population.

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

Common Benign Gynecological Conditions

• Vaginitis (Yeast Infections, Bacterial Vaginosis, Trichomoniasis): Inflammation of the vagina that can result in discharge, itching, and pain, commonly caused by infections or imbalances in vaginal flora.
• Bartholin's Gland Cysts/Abscesses: Blockage and subsequent swelling or infection of the Bartholin's glands, located near the vaginal opening.
• Uterine Fibroids (Leiomyomas): Noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years, which can cause heavy bleeding, pain, pressure, or infertility.

Gynecologic Cancers and Precancerous Conditions

• Ovarian Cancer (Epithelial, Germ Cell, Stromal Tumors): Cancer that begins in the ovaries, which can be difficult to detect early and often requires specialized surgical and medical treatment.
• Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN) & Vulvar Cancer: Precancerous changes (VIN) or malignant tumors affecting the external female genitalia (vulva).
• Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD) (e.g., Molar Pregnancy): A group of rare pregnancy-related tumors that develop in the uterus from cells that normally form the placenta, requiring careful monitoring and treatment.

Pregnancy and Childbirth Related Conditions

• Hyperemesis Gravidarum (Severe Morning Sickness): A severe form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that can lead to dehydration and weight loss, requiring medical management.
• Preterm Labor & Birth: Labor or delivery that occurs before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy, potentially leading to complications for the newborn.
• Gestational Diabetes: Diabetes that develops during pregnancy, requiring careful monitoring and management to ensure health for both mother and baby.

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. Catherine Allaire or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• 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.
• Myomectomy (Fibroid Removal - Laparoscopic, Hysteroscopic, Abdominal): Surgical removal of uterine fibroids while preserving the uterus, utilizing the most appropriate surgical approach.
• Surgical Management of Pelvic Organ Prolapse (e.g., Colporrhaphy, Sacrocolpopexy): Reconstructive surgical procedures to correct the descent of pelvic organs like the bladder, uterus, or rectum, often utilizing native tissue repair or mesh augmentation.
• Endometrial Biopsy: Office procedure to take a small sample of the uterine lining (endometrium) for diagnostic purposes, often for abnormal bleeding or suspected abnormalities.
• Endometrial Ablation & Resection: Minimally invasive procedures to destroy or remove the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in appropriate candidates.
• Pelvic Pain Evaluation & Chronic Pelvic Pain Management: Comprehensive assessment and multidisciplinary treatment strategies for acute and chronic pelvic pain, identifying potential causes such as endometriosis, fibroids, or PID.
• 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).

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Allaire 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. Allaire practices in a clinic setting located in the vibrant neighborhood of Shaughnessy, Arbutus Ridge South in Vancouver, BC. The facility is conveniently situated near Heritage Hall and the Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood, making it easily accessible for patients. It is well-connected via TransLink services, including SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), bus routes, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring barrier-free access for all patients. Metered street parking is available nearby, providing convenient options for those arriving by car.

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

Does Dr. Allaire 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. Allaire 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.

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

Dr. Allaire 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. Allaire will help you make an informed choice.

What is an IUD insertion like? Does Dr. Allaire perform this?

Yes, Dr. Allaire can perform IUD (Intrauterine Device) insertions in the office. The procedure involves placing a small, T-shaped device into your uterus for long-acting, reversible contraception. During the insertion, you might experience some cramping, similar to period pains. Dr. Allaire can discuss pain management options, such as taking an over-the-counter pain reliever beforehand or using local anesthetic in some cases. The actual insertion usually takes only a few minutes.

F2-4500 Oak St, BC Women's Health Centre
Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1

Phone: (604) 875-2534 | Fax: (604) 875-2569

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Allaire 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/306800/Allaire%2CCatherine