Dr. Christa Lynn Delacruz

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

Common Benign Gynecological Conditions

• Vulvodynia & Vulvar Pain Syndromes: Chronic pain or discomfort around the opening of the vagina (vulva) for which there's no identifiable cause, requiring careful management.
• 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.
• Endometriosis: A painful disorder in which tissue similar to the uterine lining (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, commonly on ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvic lining.

Sexual Health and Dysfunction

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

Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders

• Amenorrhea (Absence of Menstruation): The absence of menstrual periods, either primary (menarche never occurred) or secondary (periods ceased after previously being regular).
• Menopause & Perimenopausal Symptoms: The natural cessation of menstruation and the preceding transitional period, often accompanied by symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes.
• Hyperprolactinemia: Elevated levels of prolactin in the blood, which can interfere with menstruation and fertility.

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. Christa Delacruz or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• 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.
• Myomectomy (Fibroid Removal - Laparoscopic, Hysteroscopic, Abdominal): Surgical removal of uterine fibroids while preserving the uterus, utilizing the most appropriate surgical approach.
• External Cephalic Version (ECV) for Breech Presentation: Procedure to attempt to turn a breech baby to a head-down position before labor, if appropriate.
• 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.
• Endometrial Ablation & Resection: Minimally invasive procedures to destroy or remove the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in appropriate candidates.
• 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. Delacruz 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 Alberta (CPSA). A referral may be required for insured services.

Dr. Delacruz's practice is conveniently situated in the heart of Grande Prairie's Central neighborhood, specifically within a clinic or hospital setting accessible to residents of Mountview, Swanavon, and surrounding communities. The facility is located near Gateway Power Centre, making it easy to find and access. Patients can reach the clinic via Grande Prairie Transit, which offers reliable public transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible and parking is available on-site, ensuring a comfortable visit for all patients.

Are services from Dr. Delacruz, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

Medically necessary consultations, prenatal care, delivery, gynecological surgeries, and diagnostic procedures performed by a licensed Obstetrician and Gynecologist like Dr. Delacruz are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) or the clinic.

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

Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Obstetrician and Gynecologist like Dr. Delacruz 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. Delacruz's office or your referring doctor.

I have uterine fibroids. What treatment options might Dr. Delacruz suggest?

Treatment for uterine fibroids depends on their size, number, location, and the severity of your symptoms (like heavy bleeding or pain), as well as your reproductive goals. Options range from watchful waiting for asymptomatic fibroids, to medications (hormonal therapies to manage symptoms), to minimally invasive procedures (like uterine artery embolization - often by interventional radiology), or surgical removal of fibroids (myomectomy) or the uterus (hysterectomy). Dr. Delacruz will help you decide the best course of action.

What are some common gynecological surgeries Dr. Delacruz might perform?

Common gynecological surgeries include procedures like hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), oophorectomy (removal of ovaries), tubal ligation (female sterilization), D&C (dilation and curettage), endometrial ablation, and surgeries to treat conditions such as fibroids (myomectomy), endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or pelvic organ prolapse. Many of these can be performed using minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopy or hysteroscopy. Dr. Delacruz will discuss if surgery is appropriate for your condition and explain the specific procedure, risks, and benefits.

210-9719 98 Ave
Grande Prairie, AB T8V 8K6

Phone: (780) 882-8955 | Fax: (780) 882-8957

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Delacruz is a licensed Obstetrician and Gynecologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. 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 Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=7c9a53b1-c410-4594-997e-90dec10a73ad&i=361