Dr. Rebecca Rich – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Edmonton, AB

Specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Rebecca Rich (an OBGYN) is committed to delivering personalized and evidence-based care to patients in Edmonton, fostering a supportive healthcare environment. 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 set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that patients receive safe and effective treatment. Dr. Rich provides comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, with a focus on supporting women throughout all stages of life.

Dr. Rich graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of Toronto in 2011 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She has obtained key certifications and credentials in her specialty, ensuring her expertise in managing a wide array of women's health issues, pregnancy, and childbirth. Her training emphasizes both surgical and medical management, equipping her to handle diverse clinical scenarios with proficiency.

Dedicated to patient-centered care, Dr. Rich believes in shared decision-making and evidence-based practice. She is committed to promoting women's health and well-being in Edmonton through compassionate, respectful, and individualized care. She speaks English fluently and strives to create an open, supportive environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their health concerns and treatment options.

Dr. Rebecca Rich 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.
• Urinary Incontinence (Stress, Urge, Mixed, Overflow): The involuntary loss of urine, which can occur with physical exertion (stress), a sudden, strong urge (urge), a combination, or due to bladder overfilling.
• Fecal Incontinence (Accidental Bowel Leakage): The inability to control bowel movements, leading to unexpected leakage of stool from the rectum.

Gynecologic Cancers and Precancerous Conditions

• Endometrial Hyperplasia & Uterine (Endometrial) Cancer: Precancerous thickening of the uterine lining (endometrial hyperplasia) or cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus (endometrium).
• 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.
• 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.

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.
• Breast Cancer Screening Awareness & Clinical Breast Exams: Performing clinical breast exams and advising on mammography guidelines and breast self-awareness for early detection.

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. Rebecca Rich or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Rich 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. Rich practices in a clinic within a hospital setting located in the Downtown East neighborhood of Edmonton, AB, specifically serving the Boyle Street and Riverdale communities. The facility is conveniently situated near Edmonton’s Main Campus and is accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are available nearby, providing convenient parking for patients attending appointments.

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

Does Dr. Rich manage high-risk pregnancies?

Many OBGYNs manage a range of pregnancies, including some with moderate risk factors. Dr. Rich 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. Rich 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. Rich.

What are some common gynecological surgeries Dr. Rich 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. Rich will discuss if surgery is appropriate for your condition and explain the specific procedure, risks, and benefits.

What are the treatment options for endometriosis that Dr. Rich 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. Rich will discuss the most appropriate approach for your situation.

How can Dr. Rich help with menopause symptoms?

Dr. Rich 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.

11010 101 St NW, 604
Edmonton, AB T5H 4B9

Phone: (780) 421-4728 | Fax: (780) 426-6698

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Rich 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=624b38d7-11db-44f3-8173-36181e5465a0&i=1226