About
Specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Sarah Likness Coad (an OBGYN) is committed to delivering personalized and evidence-based care to patients in Vancouver, fostering a supportive healthcare environment. Practicing at a clinic or hospital setting in Vancouver, BC, she offers 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). With a special interest in areas such as Specialty practice - maternal-fetal medicine, she brings focused expertise to Dr. Coad's practice in Obstetrics and Gynecology, ensuring comprehensive care for women throughout all stages of life, including prenatal and postnatal periods.
Dr. Coad graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of British Columbia in 2009 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She holds certifications including membership with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating 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. Dr. Coad is dedicated to supporting women's health in Vancouver, providing compassionate, respectful, and thorough care. She speaks English fluently, ensuring effective communication and understanding with her patients.
Dr. Sarah Coad 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.
Common Benign Gynecological Conditions
- Lichen Sclerosus / Lichen Planus (Vulvar): Chronic inflammatory skin conditions that can affect the vulvar area, causing itching, pain, and changes in skin appearance.
- 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.
- 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.
Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders
- Dysmenorrhea (Painful Periods): Cramping and pelvic pain associated with menstruation, which can range from mild to severe and impact daily activities.
- Hyperprolactinemia: Elevated levels of prolactin in the blood, which can interfere with menstruation and fertility.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular periods, excess androgen levels, and/or polycystic ovaries on ultrasound.
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. Sarah Coad or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.
- Endometrial Ablation & Resection: Minimally invasive procedures to destroy or remove the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in appropriate candidates.
- 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.
- 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.
- Basic Infertility Workup & Ovulation Tracking: Initial investigations into causes of infertility and guidance on tracking ovulation.
- Annual Gynecological Exams & Well-Woman Care: Routine check-ups including pelvic exams, clinical breast exams, preventative health screenings, and discussion of overall gynecological health.
- Oophorectomy / Salpingo-oophorectomy (Laparoscopic or Open): Surgical removal of one or both ovaries, and potentially fallopian tubes, often for cysts, tumors, endometriosis, or cancer risk reduction.
- 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.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Coad 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. Coad practices in Vancouver within a clinic or hospital setting located in the Shaughnessy, Arbutus Ridge South neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near Oakridge Centre (currently redeveloping) and Queen Elizabeth Park, providing a scenic and accessible environment. Multiple transit options are available, including TransLink (SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines), buses, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Metered street parking is available nearby for those arriving by car, making it easy for patients to attend their appointments comfortably.
- Are services from Dr. Coad, 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. Coad 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. Coad, 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. Coad 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. Coad'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. Coad, discuss normal development, menstrual health, contraception, STI prevention, and answer any questions in a confidential setting.
- What is an IUD insertion like? Does Dr. Coad perform this?
- Yes, Dr. Coad 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. Coad 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.
4500 Oak St Rm 1T60, Children's & Women's Health Centre of BC
Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1
Phone: (604) 875-2424
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Coad 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/331138/Coad%2CSarah