Dr. Rahana Rahemat Harjee – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Vancouver, BC

As a skilled Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), Dr. Rahana Rahemat Harjee offers a full spectrum of services from routine gynecological exams to managing complex obstetrical cases, prioritizing patient well-being and informed choice. Practicing at a clinic and/or hospital setting in Vancouver, BC, she provides 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 British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring safe and ethical medical care. Dr. Harjee's role encompasses comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, with a focus on women's reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. She is committed to supporting women of all ages, including prenatal and postnatal care, in a compassionate and respectful manner.

Dr. Harjee graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of British Columbia in 2018. She completed extensive post-graduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology, gaining valuable experience in managing a wide array of women's health issues. 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 centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. Dr. Harjee is dedicated to promoting women's health in Vancouver through respectful, personalized, and comprehensive medical services. She communicates fluently in English and strives to ensure her patients feel informed, comfortable, and supported throughout their healthcare journey.

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

Sexual Health and Dysfunction

• Decreased Libido / Sexual Desire Disorders: Persistent lack of sexual interest or desire, which can have various physical or psychological causes.
• 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.

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.
• Dysmenorrhea (Painful Periods): Cramping and pelvic pain associated with menstruation, which can range from mild to severe and impact daily activities.
• 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.

Common Benign Gynecological Conditions

• Uterine Fibroids (Leiomyomas): Noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years, which can cause heavy bleeding, pain, pressure, or infertility.
• Vaginitis (Yeast Infections, Bacterial Vaginosis, Trichomoniasis): Inflammation of the vagina that can result in discharge, itching, and pain, commonly caused by infections or imbalances in vaginal flora.
• 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.

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. Rahana Harjee 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.
• 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.
• Diagnosis & Treatment of Vaginal Infections & Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Management of conditions such as yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and screening/treatment for STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV counseling.
• Basic Infertility Workup & Ovulation Tracking: Initial investigations into causes of infertility and guidance on tracking ovulation.
• Preconception Counseling & Health Optimization: Guidance and health optimization for individuals or couples planning a pregnancy, including discussion of folic acid supplementation, chronic medical conditions, genetic carrier screening, and lifestyle factors.
• Pap Tests, HPV Testing & Cervical Cancer Screening (Colposcopy, LEEP): Cervical cancer screening through Pap tests and HPV testing, with follow-up diagnostic procedures like colposcopy and treatment for precancerous changes (e.g., LEEP - Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure).
• 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).

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Harjee 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. Harjee practices in a modern clinic located in the vibrant Fairview neighborhood of Vancouver, BC. The facility is situated in a convenient hospital or clinic setting that is easily accessible by public transportation, including TransLink (SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines), bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). It is close to local landmarks such as the Gastown Historic District and Vancouver Lookout, making it easy for patients to find. The facility is wheelchair accessible and offers parking facilities for visitors, ensuring comfort and convenience for all patients seeking high-quality obstetric and gynecological care in Vancouver.

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

I have uterine fibroids. What treatment options might Dr. Harjee suggest?

Treatment for uterine fibroids depends on their size, number, location, and the severity of your symptoms (like heavy bleeding or pain), as well as your reproductive goals. Options range from watchful waiting for asymptomatic fibroids, to medications (hormonal therapies to manage symptoms), to minimally invasive procedures (like uterine artery embolization - often by interventional radiology), or surgical removal of fibroids (myomectomy) or the uterus (hysterectomy). Dr. Harjee will help you decide the best course of action.

Does Dr. Harjee manage high-risk pregnancies?

Many OBGYNs manage a range of pregnancies, including some with moderate risk factors. Dr. Harjee has a particular focus on/experience with managing high-risk pregnancies, which may include conditions like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, multiple gestations (twins/triplets), or pre-existing maternal health issues. If your pregnancy is considered high-risk due to specific maternal or fetal conditions, Dr. Harjee will provide comprehensive care and may work closely with, or refer you to, a Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) specialist if needed for highly specialized management. It's best to discuss your specific situation with Dr. Harjee.

Does Dr. Harjee 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. Harjee 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.

What are my options for pain management during labor discussed by Dr. Harjee?

Dr. Harjee will discuss various pain relief options for labor, which can range from non-medical methods (like breathing techniques, movement, massage, hydrotherapy if available) to medical options such as nitrous oxide, narcotic pain medication, and epidural anesthesia. The choice depends on your preferences, medical condition, and the progress of your labor. It's a good idea to discuss your pain management plan with Dr. Harjee during your prenatal visits.

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. Harjee, discuss normal development, menstrual health, contraception, STI prevention, and answer any questions in a confidential setting.

2775 Laurel St, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9

Phone: (604) 877-2897

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Harjee 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/345888/Harjee%2CRahana