Dr. Chad Allan Van Tongeren – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Comox, BC

Dr. Chad Allan Van Tongeren 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 Comox, BC, he offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. The facility is located in an area near central Comox, close to local points of interest and easily accessible via local public transit. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, and paid parking options are close by. Dr. Van Tongeren adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring safe and ethical practice.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia in 2009 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology, gaining expertise in managing complex women's health issues. Dr. Van Tongeren holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to ongoing professional development and excellence in patient care.

His clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. Dr. Van Tongeren is dedicated to supporting women's health in Comox through compassionate, respectful, and individualized care. He communicates fluently in English and strives to foster a trusting and reassuring environment for all his patients.

Dr. Chad Van Tongeren provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:

Infertility and Reproductive Health

• Fallopian Tube Disorders (Blockage, Hydrosalpinx, Adhesions): Conditions affecting the fallopian tubes, such as blockages or scarring, that can prevent sperm from reaching the egg or a fertilized egg from reaching the uterus.
• 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.

Pregnancy and Childbirth Related Conditions

• Preeclampsia & Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy: Pregnancy complications characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, often the liver and kidneys.
• Postpartum Complications (e.g., Hemorrhage, Infection, Mood Disorders): Health problems that can occur after childbirth, such as excessive bleeding, infection, or postpartum depression/anxiety, requiring prompt attention.
• Routine & High-Risk Prenatal Care: Comprehensive monitoring and management throughout all stages of pregnancy, including those with increased maternal or fetal risks.

Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders

• Thyroid Disorders affecting Gynecologic Health: Conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism that can impact menstrual cycles, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes.
• 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.
• Amenorrhea (Absence of Menstruation): The absence of menstrual periods, either primary (menarche never occurred) or secondary (periods ceased after previously being regular).

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. Chad Van Tongeren or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• 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.
• Comprehensive Prenatal Care & Risk Assessment: Regular check-ups, monitoring, and guidance throughout pregnancy to ensure maternal and fetal well-being, including initial risk assessment, ultrasound referrals, genetic screening discussions, and prenatal testing.
• Management of Menstrual Disorders & Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Diagnosis and treatment for conditions like heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), irregular periods, painful periods (dysmenorrhea), amenorrhea (absence of periods), and premenstrual syndrome (PMS)/PMDD.
• Dilation and Curettage (D&C) / Dilation and Evacuation (D&E): Procedures to dilate the cervix and remove tissue from the inside of the uterus, for diagnosis or treatment of various uterine conditions or after miscarriage.
• Laparoscopic Surgery for Endometriosis & Ovarian Cysts (Excision/Ablation): Minimally invasive surgical techniques for diagnosing and treating endometriosis implants (excision or ablation) and removing benign ovarian cysts.
• 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.
• Oophorectomy / Salpingo-oophorectomy (Laparoscopic or Open): Surgical removal of one or both ovaries, and potentially fallopian tubes, often for cysts, tumors, endometriosis, or cancer risk reduction.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Van Tongeren 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. Van Tongeren practices in a modern, accessible clinic located in the heart of Comox, BC. The facility is situated in a convenient area near central Comox, close to local points of interest, and is easily reachable via public transit. The clinic is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfortable access for all patients. Paid parking options are available nearby, providing ease of parking during visits. The practice is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care in a welcoming environment, supporting women through all stages of life.

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

What are the treatment options for endometriosis that Dr. Van Tongeren might recommend?

Treatment for endometriosis aims to manage pain and improve fertility if desired. Options vary based on symptom severity and patient goals and can include pain medications (NSAIDs), hormonal therapies (like birth control pills, progestins, GnRH agonists) to suppress endometrial tissue growth, and surgical treatments (laparoscopy) to remove endometrial implants and scar tissue. Dr. Van Tongeren will discuss the most appropriate approach for your situation.

What birth control options can Dr. Van Tongeren discuss with me?

Dr. Van Tongeren 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. Van Tongeren will help you make an informed choice.

What does an Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) like Dr. Van Tongeren do?

An Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), like Dr. Van Tongeren, is a medical doctor specializing in women's reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. They provide care throughout a woman's life, including prenatal care, labor and delivery, postpartum support, diagnosis and treatment of gynecological conditions (e.g., infections, fibroids, endometriosis, menstrual disorders), family planning, contraceptive management, preventative screenings like Pap tests, and management of menopausal symptoms.

101-1757 Beaufort Ave, Ocean View Women's Clinic
Comox, BC V9M 1R8

Phone: (250) 339-3114

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Van Tongeren 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/331287/Van%20Tongeren%2CChad