About
Dr. Seth Robert Heckman, 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 in a clinic and hospital setting in Edmonton, AB, he offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. His practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Heckman provides comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, ensuring women receive personalized attention tailored to their unique health needs.
He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree in 2006 from the United States of America and completed extensive post-graduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology. His certifications include comprehensive postgraduate medical training and certification in his specialty, which ensures he is well-equipped to handle a wide array of women’s health concerns with the latest evidence-based practices.
Dr. Heckman is dedicated to patient-centered care, emphasizing shared decision-making and compassionate support. He is committed to advancing women’s health in Edmonton through ongoing education, respectful communication, and personalized treatment plans. He speaks English fluently and strives to create a welcoming environment where patients feel empowered to discuss their health openly and comfortably.
Dr. Seth Heckman provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:
Screening and Preventative Care
- Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap Tests & HPV Testing): Regular screening to detect precancerous changes or cancer of the cervix, primarily through Pap tests and HPV DNA testing.
- Breast Cancer Screening Awareness & Clinical Breast Exams: Performing clinical breast exams and advising on mammography guidelines and breast self-awareness for early detection.
- Contraception Counseling & Family Planning: Providing information and access to various methods of birth control to help individuals plan their families.
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.
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): An infection of the female reproductive organs (uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries), often caused by sexually transmitted bacteria, which can lead to serious complications if untreated.
- Bartholin's Gland Cysts/Abscesses: Blockage and subsequent swelling or infection of the Bartholin's glands, located near the vaginal opening.
Pregnancy and Childbirth Related Conditions
- Gestational Diabetes: Diabetes that develops during pregnancy, requiring careful monitoring and management to ensure health for both mother and baby.
- Preterm Labor & Birth: Labor or delivery that occurs before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy, potentially leading to complications for the newborn.
- Hyperemesis Gravidarum (Severe Morning Sickness): A severe form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that can lead to dehydration and weight loss, requiring medical management.
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. Seth Heckman 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Menopause & Perimenopause Symptom Management: Personalized guidance and treatment options for symptoms associated with menopause, including hot flashes, vaginal dryness, sleep issues, and discussion of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and non-hormonal alternatives.
- 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.
- Basic Infertility Workup & Ovulation Tracking: Initial investigations into causes of infertility and guidance on tracking ovulation.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Heckman 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. Heckman's practice is situated in a modern clinic located in the south-central area of Edmonton, specifically in the Bonnie Doon, Idylwylde neighborhood. The facility is conveniently positioned near major community events and accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including Light Rail Transit (LRT) and bus routes. The clinic is wheelchair accessible to accommodate all patients, and paid parking options are available nearby for added convenience. Patients can easily access high-quality obstetric and gynecological services in a welcoming environment that prioritizes comfort and safety.
- Are services from Dr. Heckman, 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. Heckman 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. Heckman, 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. Heckman 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. Heckman's office or your referring doctor.
- Does Dr. Heckman support VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean)?
- VBAC can be a safe option for many women who have had a previous Cesarean section. Dr. Heckman'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. He will assess your individual suitability for VBAC and discuss the benefits and risks with you. Hospital policies also play a role in VBAC availability.
- What is an IUD insertion like? Does Dr. Heckman perform this?
- Yes, Dr. Heckman 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. Heckman 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.
- What are the treatment options for endometriosis that Dr. Heckman 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. Heckman will discuss the most appropriate approach for your situation.
- Does Dr. Heckman manage high-risk pregnancies?
- Many OBGYNs manage a range of pregnancies, including some with moderate risk factors. If your pregnancy is considered high-risk due to specific maternal or fetal conditions, Dr. Heckman 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. Heckman.
7711 85 St NW
Edmonton, AB T6C 3B4
Phone: (780) 800-0042 | Fax: (780) 944-9302
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Heckman 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=d9276d9d-57df-461a-a6dc-d36ace1229d7&i=605