Dr. Chantalle Julie Brace – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Kelowna, BC

Dr. Chantalle Julie Brace, a respected Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), focuses on empowering women through all stages of life with expert medical and surgical care, from adolescence through menopause and beyond. Practicing at a clinic and/or hospital setting in Kelowna, BC, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. Her practice is committed to adhering to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring safe and ethical treatment for all patients. Providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, Dr. Brace serves women of all ages, including prenatal and postnatal care, with a patient-centered approach that emphasizes education, compassion, and shared decision-making.

Dr. Brace graduated with her MD from Queen's University in 2015 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her dedication to maintaining the highest standards of medical excellence and ongoing professional development.

Her clinical philosophy centers on providing patient-centered care, fostering open communication, and applying evidence-based practices. Dr. Brace is dedicated to promoting women's health in Kelowna through individualized treatment plans that respect each patient's unique needs and preferences. She speaks English and Spanish, enabling her to serve a diverse patient population with culturally sensitive and effective communication.

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

Pelvic Floor and Urinary Disorders

• Urinary Incontinence (Stress, Urge, Mixed, Overflow): The involuntary loss of urine, which can occur with physical exertion (stress), a sudden, strong urge (urge), a combination, or due to bladder overfilling.
• Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Frequent infections of the urinary system, requiring investigation for underlying causes and preventative strategies.
• Pelvic Organ Prolapse (Cystocele, Rectocele, Uterine Prolapse, Enterocele, Vaginal Vault Prolapse): A condition where one or more pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, rectum, small bowel, vaginal apex) drop or press into or out of the vagina due to weakened pelvic floor muscles.

Common Benign Gynecological Conditions

• Ovarian Cysts (Functional, Dermoid, Endometriomas): Fluid-filled sacs or pockets in an ovary or on its surface, which are common and often benign but can sometimes cause pain or require intervention.
• 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.

Sexual Health and Dysfunction

• Decreased Libido / Sexual Desire Disorders: Persistent lack of sexual interest or desire, which can have various physical or psychological causes.
• 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.

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. Chantalle Brace or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• Endometrial Ablation & Resection: Minimally invasive procedures to destroy or remove the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in appropriate candidates.
• 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.
• Tubal Ligation / Salpingectomy for Sterilization: Surgical methods for permanent female contraception, including removal of fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) which may also reduce ovarian cancer risk.
• Contraceptive Counseling & Full Range Management: Comprehensive discussion and provision of various birth control methods, including oral contraceptives, patches, rings, injectables, IUD insertion/removal (hormonal and copper), and contraceptive implant insertion/removal.
• 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.
• 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).
• Annual Gynecological Exams & Well-Woman Care: Routine check-ups including pelvic exams, clinical breast exams, preventative health screenings, and discussion of overall gynecological health.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Brace 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. Brace practices in a clinic or hospital setting located in the Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, Downtown neighborhood of Kelowna. The facility is conveniently situated near Okanagan College and Kelowna General Hospital, making it accessible for patients from across the region. It can be reached via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit). The location is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are close by to facilitate convenient visits.

Are services from Dr. Brace, 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. Brace 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. Brace, 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. Brace 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. Brace'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. Brace, discuss normal development, menstrual health, contraception, STI prevention, and answer any questions in a confidential setting.

What are the treatment options for endometriosis that Dr. Brace 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. Brace will discuss the most appropriate approach for your situation.

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

At which hospital(s) does Dr. Brace deliver babies or perform surgeries?

Dr. Brace is affiliated with affiliated local hospitals. You can confirm the specific hospital(s) where she performs deliveries and gynecological surgeries by contacting Dr. Brace's office directly. This information is important for planning your care and delivery.

616 K.L.O. Rd Unit 210
Kelowna, BC V1Y 4X4

Phone: (250) 864-3272 | Fax: (778) 380-0550

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Brace 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/354040/Brace%2CChantalle