About
Dr. Maria Corazon Armellie Dela Cruz is a dedicated Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) providing comprehensive care for women's reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. She offers a patient-focused approach to manage a wide spectrum of conditions. Practicing at a clinic and/or hospital setting in Penticton, BC, she delivers accessible and high-quality care to the community. Her practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring safe and ethical medical practices. Dr. Dela Cruz's role encompasses providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions.
She graduated with an MD from the University of Alberta in 1991 and completed extensive post-graduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Dela Cruz holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining high standards of specialty care and continuous professional development.
Her clinical philosophy emphasizes patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. She is dedicated to supporting women of all ages in Penticton, including prenatal and postnatal care. Dr. Dela Cruz speaks English fluently and strives to create a comfortable environment where women feel heard, respected, and empowered in their health choices.
Dr. Maria Dela Cruz provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:
Screening and Preventative Care
- Bone Density Health (Osteoporosis Screening Referrals): Assessing risk factors for osteoporosis and referring for bone density screening (DEXA scan) when appropriate, especially around menopause.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Screening & Counseling: Testing for common STIs based on risk factors and symptoms, along with counseling on prevention and safe practices.
- Contraception Counseling & Family Planning: Providing information and access to various methods of birth control to help individuals plan their families.
Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders
- Thyroid Disorders affecting Gynecologic Health: Conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism that can impact menstrual cycles, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes.
- Menopause & Perimenopausal Symptoms: The natural cessation of menstruation and the preceding transitional period, often accompanied by symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes.
- Hyperprolactinemia: Elevated levels of prolactin in the blood, which can interfere with menstruation and fertility.
Gynecologic Cancers and Precancerous Conditions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
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. Maria Dela Cruz or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.
- 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.
- Endometrial Biopsy: Office procedure to take a small sample of the uterine lining (endometrium) for diagnostic purposes, often for abnormal bleeding or suspected abnormalities.
- 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).
- Postpartum Care & Follow-up: Medical follow-up and support for mothers in the weeks following childbirth, addressing physical recovery, incision care (if applicable), breastfeeding support, contraception planning, and screening for postpartum mood disorders.
- 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.
- Hysterectomy (Abdominal, Vaginal, Laparoscopic, Robotic-Assisted): Surgical removal of the uterus, performed through various approaches including minimally invasive techniques, depending on the medical indication and patient factors.
- 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.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Dela Cruz 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. Dela Cruz practices in a well-equipped clinic located in the vibrant neighborhood of Penticton Central, South End, Kaledon, Okanagan Falls, Naramata Bench (Rural South) of Penticton. The facility is conveniently situated near the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre, making it accessible for local residents. It is easily reachable via the South Okanagan-Similkameen Transit System (BC Transit), ensuring convenient public transportation options. The clinic is wheelchair accessible to accommodate all patients, and metered street parking is available nearby for those arriving by car. The location provides a welcoming environment where women can receive comprehensive obstetric and gynecological care in a comfortable setting.
- Are services from Dr. Dela Cruz, 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. Dela Cruz 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. Dela Cruz, 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. Dela Cruz 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. Dela Cruz's office or your referring doctor.
- 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. Dela Cruz, discuss normal development, menstrual health, contraception, STI prevention, and answer any questions in a confidential setting.
- What birth control options can Dr. Dela Cruz discuss with me?
- Dr. Dela Cruz 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. Dela Cruz will help you make an informed choice.
- What are some common gynecological surgeries Dr. Dela Cruz 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. Dela Cruz will discuss if surgery is appropriate for your condition and explain the specific procedure, risks, and benefits.
1481 Government St
Penticton, BC V2A 4V9
Phone: (250) 770-1364 | Fax: (250) 492-3885
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Dela Cruz 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/313532/Dela%20Cruz%2CMaria