About
Specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Francine Tessier (an OBGYN) is committed to delivering personalized and evidence-based care to patients in Vancouver, fostering a supportive healthcare environment. Practicing at a clinic or hospital setting in Vancouver, BC, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. Her practice adheres to the standards and guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that patients receive safe and effective treatment. With a special interest in areas such as Specialty practice - maternal-fetal medicine, she brings focused expertise to Dr. Tessier's practice in Obstetrics and Gynecology, providing comprehensive care for women of all ages, including prenatal and postnatal support.
Dr. Tessier graduated with a Medical Degree from Université de Montréal in 1989 and completed extensive post-graduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She holds certifications including the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining high standards of medical excellence. Her training has equipped her with the skills necessary to manage a broad spectrum of women's health issues with compassion and precision.
Her clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. Dr. Tessier is dedicated to promoting women's health in Vancouver through personalized treatment plans and ongoing support. She is fluent in English and French, ensuring effective communication and comfort for diverse patient populations. Her approach emphasizes empathy, education, and partnership to empower women in their healthcare journeys.
Dr. Francine Tessier provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:
Gynecologic Cancers and Precancerous Conditions
- Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN) & Vulvar Cancer: Precancerous changes (VIN) or malignant tumors affecting the external female genitalia (vulva).
- 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.
- 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.
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.
- Uterine Factors Affecting Fertility (e.g., Septum, Asherman's Syndrome): Structural abnormalities or conditions of the uterus that can interfere with implantation or pregnancy maintenance.
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. Francine Tessier or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.
- 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.
- Diagnostic & Operative Hysteroscopy: Procedure using a thin, lighted scope to examine the inside of the uterus and perform minor surgical treatments such as polyp removal, fibroid resection, or septum correction.
- 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.
- Myomectomy (Fibroid Removal - Laparoscopic, Hysteroscopic, Abdominal): Surgical removal of uterine fibroids while preserving the uterus, utilizing the most appropriate surgical approach.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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. Tessier 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. Tessier practices in a modern clinic located in the vibrant neighborhood of Shaughnessy, Arbutus Ridge South in Vancouver. The facility is conveniently situated in a clinic or hospital setting that is easily accessible from the nearby Shopping District. Patients can reach the location via TransLink services including SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, providing added convenience for those coming by car.
- Are services from Dr. Tessier, 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. Tessier 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. Tessier, 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. Tessier 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. Tessier's office or your referring doctor.
- What is an IUD insertion like? Does Dr. Tessier perform this?
- Yes, Dr. Tessier 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. Tessier 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.
- What does an Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) like Dr. Tessier do?
- An Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), like Dr. Tessier, 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.
- What can I expect during my first prenatal visit?
- Your first prenatal visit with Dr. Tessier is usually quite comprehensive, typically scheduled around 8-10 weeks of pregnancy. It will involve a detailed review of your medical history, your partner's medical history (if applicable), and any previous pregnancies. Dr. Tessier will likely perform a physical exam, which may include a pelvic exam, confirm your pregnancy (often with an ultrasound referral), estimate your due date, and discuss important aspects of a healthy pregnancy such as nutrition, lifestyle, prenatal vitamins, and options for genetic screening and prenatal testing. You'll also have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
Room 1U2-4500 Oak St, OB-GYN/Maternal Fetal Medicine, BC Women's Hospital
Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1
Phone: (604) 875-3075 | Fax: (604) 875-3255
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Tessier 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/311746/Tessier%2CFrancine