Dr. Julia Catherine Parkman – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Nanaimo, BC

Specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Julia Catherine Parkman (an OBGYN) is committed to delivering personalized and evidence-based care to patients in Nanaimo, fostering a supportive healthcare environment. Practicing at a clinic and/or hospital setting in Nanaimo, BC, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. Her practice is located in the Central Nanaimo, Departure Bay neighborhood, conveniently close to Downtown Nanaimo and the Nanaimo Museum. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring equitable access for all patients. Paid parking options are nearby for added convenience. Dr. Parkman adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), holding license number 55275.

Dr. Parkman graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Western Ontario in 2016 and 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 high standards of medical excellence and ongoing professional development.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. She is dedicated to promoting women's health across all stages of life in Nanaimo, providing compassionate support and comprehensive management of reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. Dr. Parkman communicates fluently in English and is committed to fostering respectful, informative, and collaborative relationships with her patients.

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

Pregnancy and Childbirth Related Conditions

• Multiple Gestation (Twins, Triplets, etc.): Pregnancies involving more than one fetus, requiring specialized care and monitoring due to increased risks.
• 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

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular periods, excess androgen levels, and/or polycystic ovaries on ultrasound.
• Thyroid Disorders affecting Gynecologic Health: Conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism that can impact menstrual cycles, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes.
• Dysmenorrhea (Painful Periods): Cramping and pelvic pain associated with menstruation, which can range from mild to severe and impact daily activities.

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.
• Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN) & Vulvar Cancer: Precancerous changes (VIN) or malignant tumors affecting the external female genitalia (vulva).
• Vaginal Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VAIN) & Vaginal Cancer: Precancerous changes (VAIN) or rare cancers affecting the vagina.

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. Julia Parkman or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• 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.
• 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.
• Endometrial Biopsy: Office procedure to take a small sample of the uterine lining (endometrium) for diagnostic purposes, often for abnormal bleeding or suspected abnormalities.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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. Parkman 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. Julia Catherine Parkman practices in a modern clinic and hospital setting located in the heart of Nanaimo's Central Nanaimo, Departure Bay neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near Downtown Nanaimo and the Nanaimo Museum, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. Patients can reach the location via the Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System (BC Transit). The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring barrier-free access for all patients. Paid parking options are available nearby to accommodate visitors, providing a comfortable and convenient environment for women seeking obstetric and gynecological care in Nanaimo.

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

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

An Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), like Dr. Parkman, 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 are some common gynecological surgeries Dr. Parkman 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. Parkman will discuss if surgery is appropriate for your condition and explain the specific procedure, risks, and benefits.

What birth control options can Dr. Parkman discuss with me?

Dr. Parkman 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. Parkman will help you make an informed choice.

1621 Dufferin Crescent, Suite 105
Nanaimo, BC V9S 5T4

Phone: (778) 787-1700 | Fax: (778) 787-1701

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Parkman 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/357129/Parkman%2CJulia