About
Dr. Jessica Nell McAlpine, 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 in Vancouver, BC, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community, adhering to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). With a special interest in areas such as gynecologic oncology, she brings focused expertise to her practice in Obstetrics and Gynecology, ensuring comprehensive care for women of all ages, including prenatal and postnatal support.
Dr. McAlpine graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in 1996, gaining extensive postgraduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She holds certifications including those recognized by the College Registration Committee of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining high standards of practice and ongoing professional development.
Her clinical philosophy is centered on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. Dedication to women's health in Vancouver drives her to provide compassionate, personalized care tailored to each patient's unique needs. She speaks fluent English and is committed to creating a supportive environment where women feel empowered and informed about their health choices.
Dr. Jessica McAlpine provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:
Infertility and Reproductive Health
- Female Infertility Evaluation & Initial Management: Comprehensive assessment to identify potential causes of difficulty conceiving in women and initiation of basic treatments.
- 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.
- 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.
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.
Gynecologic Cancers and Precancerous Conditions
- 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.
- Endometrial Hyperplasia & Uterine (Endometrial) Cancer: Precancerous thickening of the uterine lining (endometrial hyperplasia) or cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus (endometrium).
- 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.
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. Jessica McAlpine or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.
- 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.
- Radical Hysterectomy & Pelvic Lymphadenectomy: Extensive surgical procedures for certain gynecologic cancers involving removal of the uterus, cervix, surrounding tissues, and pelvic lymph nodes.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Myomectomy (Fibroid Removal - Laparoscopic, Hysteroscopic, Abdominal): Surgical removal of uterine fibroids while preserving the uterus, utilizing the most appropriate surgical approach.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. McAlpine 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. McAlpine's practice is located within a modern clinic in the Fairview neighborhood of Vancouver, BC. The facility is conveniently situated near City Square Shopping Centre, making it easily accessible for patients. It is well-connected via TransLink, with access to SkyTrain lines (Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), bus routes, SeaBus, and West Coast Express at Waterfront Station. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring barrier-free entry for all patients. Paid parking options are available nearby for added convenience, making it straightforward for patients to attend their appointments.
- Are services from Dr. McAlpine, 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. McAlpine 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. McAlpine, 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. McAlpine 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. McAlpine's office or your referring doctor.
- Does Dr. McAlpine support VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean)?
- VBAC can be a safe option for many women who have had a previous Cesarean section. Dr. McAlpine's approach to VBAC will depend on your specific medical history, the reason for your previous C-section, the type of uterine incision you had, and current pregnancy factors. she will assess your individual suitability for VBAC and discuss the benefits and risks with you. Hospital policies also play a role in VBAC availability.
- How can Dr. McAlpine help with menopause symptoms?
- Dr. McAlpine can help manage bothersome menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and bone density concerns. Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress reduction), non-hormonal medications, vaginal estrogen for localized symptoms, or systemic hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after a thorough discussion of the benefits and risks based on your individual health profile and preferences.
- 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. McAlpine, 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. McAlpine 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. McAlpine will discuss the most appropriate approach for your situation.
6 Fl-2775 Laurel St, Diamond Hlth Care Centre
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9
Phone: (604) 875-5608 | Fax: (604) 875-4869
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. McAlpine 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/329490/McAlpine%2CJessica