About
Dr. Natasha Keppe Simula, 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 New Westminster, BC, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. Her practice adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Simula's role encompasses providing comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including both routine and complex conditions, ensuring women receive personalized attention tailored to their unique health needs. She is dedicated to supporting women during pregnancy, childbirth, and beyond, fostering a trusting and empathetic environment for her patients.
Dr. Simula graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia in 2016 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She holds certifications including: Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining high standards of medical excellence and ongoing professional development.
Her clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. She is dedicated to improving women's health outcomes in New Westminster and surrounding communities. Fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, Dr. Simula strives to communicate effectively and compassionately with her diverse patient population, ensuring they feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their healthcare journey.
Dr. Natasha Simula provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:
Pregnancy and Childbirth Related Conditions
- Ectopic Pregnancy: A pregnancy in which the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, typically in a fallopian tube, requiring urgent medical attention.
- Preterm Labor & Birth: Labor or delivery that occurs before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy, potentially leading to complications for the newborn.
- Preeclampsia & Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy: Pregnancy complications characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, often the liver and kidneys.
Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders
- 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.
- Thyroid Disorders affecting Gynecologic Health: Conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism that can impact menstrual cycles, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes.
- Hyperprolactinemia: Elevated levels of prolactin in the blood, which can interfere with menstruation and fertility.
Sexual Health and Dysfunction
- Vaginismus: Involuntary muscle spasms in the pelvic floor muscles that make vaginal penetration painful or impossible.
- 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.
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. Natasha Simula or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.
- 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.
- Annual Gynecological Exams & Well-Woman Care: Routine check-ups including pelvic exams, clinical breast exams, preventative health screenings, and discussion of overall gynecological health.
- 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.
- Endometrial Biopsy: Office procedure to take a small sample of the uterine lining (endometrium) for diagnostic purposes, often for abnormal bleeding or suspected abnormalities.
- 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.
- 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.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Simula 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. Simula practices in a modern, accessible clinic located in the vibrant neighborhood of Uptown, Massey Victory Heights in New Westminster, BC. The facility is situated conveniently near Queensborough Landing Outlet Mall, making it easy for patients to access her care. The clinic is well-connected via TransLink, with options including the SkyTrain Expo Line and bus services, ensuring reliable transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible, designed to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Metered street parking is available nearby, providing convenient parking options for visitors seeking personalized and compassionate women's health services in a welcoming environment.
- Are services from Dr. Simula, 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. Simula 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. Simula, 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. Simula 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. Simula'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. Simula, discuss normal development, menstrual health, contraception, STI prevention, and answer any questions in a confidential setting.
- What birth control options can Dr. Simula discuss with me?
- Dr. Simula 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. Simula will help you make an informed choice.
- What are the treatment options for endometriosis that Dr. Simula 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. Simula will discuss the most appropriate approach for your situation.
- Does Dr. Simula support VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean)?
- VBAC can be a safe option for many women who have had a previous Cesarean section. Dr. Simula'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.
302-301 Columbia St E
New Westminster, BC V3L 3W5
Phone: (604) 517-8453 | Fax: (855) 461-3443
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Simula 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/341060/Simula%2CNatasha