About
Specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Laura Anne Marie Heslip (an OBGYN) is committed to delivering personalized and evidence-based care to patients in Richmond, fostering a supportive healthcare environment. Practicing at a clinic and/or hospital setting in Richmond, 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). Dr. Heslip provides comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, ensuring women of all ages, including prenatal and postnatal patients, receive attentive and compassionate care.
Dr. Heslip graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Alberta in 1997 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She holds certifications including: Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, and maintains active licensure with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (licence number 27892). Her training and certifications reflect her dedication to maintaining the highest standards of medical excellence and patient safety.
Her clinical philosophy emphasizes patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. Dr. Heslip is dedicated to promoting women's health in Richmond through personalized treatment plans and thorough education. She speaks English fluently, ensuring clear and effective communication with her patients, and is committed to supporting women through all stages of life with compassion and respect.
Dr. Laura Heslip provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:
Common Benign Gynecological Conditions
- 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.
- Lichen Sclerosus / Lichen Planus (Vulvar): Chronic inflammatory skin conditions that can affect the vulvar area, causing itching, pain, and changes in skin appearance.
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): An infection of the female reproductive organs (uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries), often caused by sexually transmitted bacteria, which can lead to serious complications if untreated.
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.
Pelvic Floor and Urinary Disorders
- 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.
- Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Frequent infections of the urinary system, requiring investigation for underlying causes and preventative strategies.
- Interstitial Cystitis / Painful Bladder Syndrome (IC/PBS): A chronic condition causing bladder pressure, bladder pain, and sometimes pelvic pain, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain.
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. Laura Heslip 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.
- Endometrial Ablation & Resection: Minimally invasive procedures to destroy or remove the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in appropriate candidates.
- External Cephalic Version (ECV) for Breech Presentation: Procedure to attempt to turn a breech baby to a head-down position before labor, if appropriate.
- Surgical Management of Pelvic Organ Prolapse (e.g., Colporrhaphy, Sacrocolpopexy): Reconstructive surgical procedures to correct the descent of pelvic organs like the bladder, uterus, or rectum, often utilizing native tissue repair or mesh augmentation.
- Annual Gynecological Exams & Well-Woman Care: Routine check-ups including pelvic exams, clinical breast exams, preventative health screenings, and discussion of overall gynecological health.
- 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.
- Tubal Ligation / Salpingectomy for Sterilization: Surgical methods for permanent female contraception, including removal of fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) which may also reduce ovarian cancer risk.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Heslip 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. Heslip practices in the Central Richmond (City Centre North) neighborhood of Richmond, BC, within a modern clinic and hospital setting. The facility is conveniently located near Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU Richmond) and is easily accessible via TransLink, including the SkyTrain Canada Line and bus routes. The clinic is wheelchair accessible to accommodate all patients, and parking is available on-site for added convenience. Patients can expect a welcoming environment designed to support their health and comfort throughout their visits.
- Are services from Dr. Heslip, 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. Heslip 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. Heslip, 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. Heslip 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. Heslip's office or your referring doctor.
- Does Dr. Heslip discuss or offer the HPV vaccine?
- The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is highly effective in preventing infections with HPV types that cause most cervical cancers, as well as other anogenital and oropharyngeal cancers. Dr. Heslip can discuss the benefits of the HPV vaccine, current recommendations for different age groups (including catch-up vaccination for adults), and can either provide the vaccine or refer you to where it can be obtained, depending on clinic services and provincial programs.
- 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. Heslip will advise you on the appropriate screening schedule for your individual circumstances based on current provincial guidelines.
- How can Dr. Heslip help with menopause symptoms?
- Dr. Heslip 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.
- What are the treatment options for endometriosis that Dr. Heslip 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. Heslip will discuss the most appropriate approach for your situation.
- Does Dr. Heslip support VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean)?
- VBAC can be a safe option for many women who have had a previous Cesarean section. Dr. Heslip'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.
200-7031 Westminster Hwy
Richmond, BC V6X 1A3
Phone: (604) 207-2500 | Fax: (604) 207-2551
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Heslip 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/327723/Heslip%2CLaura