About
Dr. Laura KarisAllen, 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 and/or hospital setting in Edmonton, AB, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. Her practice adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, Dr. KarisAllen is dedicated to supporting women's health needs with empathy and professionalism. She serves women of all ages, including those seeking prenatal and postnatal care, ensuring each patient receives personalized attention and support.
Dr. KarisAllen graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Dalhousie University in 2013 and completed extensive post-graduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology, earning certification recognized within Canada. Her training included a broad range of surgical and medical management techniques, enabling her to offer a wide array of services tailored to individual patient needs. Her dedication to ongoing education ensures she remains current with the latest advancements and best practices in women’s health.
Her clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. Dr. KarisAllen is committed to promoting women’s health in Edmonton through compassionate support, comprehensive education, and innovative treatment options. She speaks English fluently and strives to create a welcoming environment where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered to make informed choices about their health and well-being.
Dr. Laura KarisAllen provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:
Pelvic Floor and Urinary Disorders
- 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.
- Fecal Incontinence (Accidental Bowel Leakage): The inability to control bowel movements, leading to unexpected leakage of stool from the rectum.
- 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.
Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) & Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): A collection of emotional and physical symptoms that occur in the one to two weeks before a woman's period, with PMDD being a more severe, debilitating form.
- Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (Heavy, Irregular, Prolonged Periods): Menstrual bleeding that is different in frequency, duration, or amount than what is typical for an individual, requiring investigation.
- Hirsutism (Excess Hair Growth) & Acne (Hormonal): Excessive growth of dark or coarse hair in a male-like pattern or persistent acne, often related to hormonal imbalances like those seen in PCOS.
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.
- 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.
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 KarisAllen or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.
- 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.
- External Cephalic Version (ECV) for Breech Presentation: Procedure to attempt to turn a breech baby to a head-down position before labor, if appropriate.
- 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.
- 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.
- Myomectomy (Fibroid Removal - Laparoscopic, Hysteroscopic, Abdominal): Surgical removal of uterine fibroids while preserving the uterus, utilizing the most appropriate surgical approach.
- Tubal Ligation / Salpingectomy for Sterilization: Surgical methods for permanent female contraception, including removal of fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) which may also reduce ovarian cancer risk.
- Endometrial Biopsy: Office procedure to take a small sample of the uterine lining (endometrium) for diagnostic purposes, often for abnormal bleeding or suspected abnormalities.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. KarisAllen 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. Laura KarisAllen practices in a modern, accessible clinic within a hospital setting located in the vibrant neighborhood of SE: Mill Woods Town Centre, Michaels Park, Richfield in Edmonton. The facility is conveniently situated near High Level Bridge Access and the Garneau/University Area, making it easily reachable from various parts of the city. Patients can access the clinic via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes. The facility is wheelchair accessible and offers ample parking for visitors, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience for all patients.
- Are services from Dr. KarisAllen, 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. KarisAllen 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. KarisAllen, 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. KarisAllen 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. KarisAllen's office or your referring doctor.
- What is an IUD insertion like? Does Dr. KarisAllen perform this?
- Yes, Dr. KarisAllen 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. KarisAllen 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 are the treatment options for endometriosis that Dr. KarisAllen 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. KarisAllen will discuss the most appropriate approach for your situation.
120-3017 66 St NW
Edmonton, AB T6K 4B2
Phone: (780) 461-6220
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. KarisAllen 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=f5127f57-fd66-4835-9a86-8b59b8faf1b5&i=724