About
Specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Sheona Mae Mitchell-Foster (an OBGYN) is committed to delivering personalized and evidence-based care to patients in Prince George, fostering a supportive healthcare environment. Practicing at a clinic and/or hospital setting in Prince George, BC, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. The facility is located in the Downtown Prince George, Central neighborhood, conveniently close to landmarks such as Downtown Prince George and Two Rivers Gallery. It is easily accessible via the Prince George Transit System (BC Transit). The facility is wheelchair accessible, and paid parking options are close by. Dr. Mitchell-Foster adheres strictly to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring comprehensive and safe care for all her patients.
Dr. Mitchell-Foster earned her medical degree from the University of Calgary in 2007 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She holds certifications from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining high professional standards and ongoing education. Her training emphasizes both surgical expertise and medical management of a wide range of women's health issues.
With a focus on patient-centered care, Dr. Mitchell-Foster believes in shared decision-making and evidence-based practice. She is dedicated to supporting women’s health throughout all stages of life in Prince George, providing comprehensive obstetric and gynecological services. She is fluent in English and Spanish, facilitating communication with diverse patient populations and ensuring that her patients feel heard, respected, and well-informed in their healthcare journeys.
Dr. Sheona Mitchell-Foster provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:
Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders
- Thyroid Disorders affecting Gynecologic Health: Conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism that can impact menstrual cycles, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes.
- 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.
- 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.
Pregnancy and Childbirth Related Conditions
- Multiple Gestation (Twins, Triplets, etc.): Pregnancies involving more than one fetus, requiring specialized care and monitoring due to increased risks.
- Placenta Previa & Placental Abruption: Conditions where the placenta is abnormally positioned (previa) or detaches prematurely from the uterine wall (abruption), posing risks to mother and baby.
- Postpartum Complications (e.g., Hemorrhage, Infection, Mood Disorders): Health problems that can occur after childbirth, such as excessive bleeding, infection, or postpartum depression/anxiety, requiring prompt attention.
Screening and Preventative Care
- HPV Vaccination Counseling: Discussing the benefits and recommendations for the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to prevent HPV-related cancers.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Screening & Counseling: Testing for common STIs based on risk factors and symptoms, along with counseling on prevention and safe practices.
- 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.
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. Sheona Mitchell-Foster or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.
- 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 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.
- Tubal Ligation / Salpingectomy for Sterilization: Surgical methods for permanent female contraception, including removal of fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) which may also reduce ovarian cancer risk.
- 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).
- Myomectomy (Fibroid Removal - Laparoscopic, Hysteroscopic, Abdominal): Surgical removal of uterine fibroids while preserving the uterus, utilizing the most appropriate surgical approach.
- Pelvic Pain Evaluation & Chronic Pelvic Pain Management: Comprehensive assessment and multidisciplinary treatment strategies for acute and chronic pelvic pain, identifying potential causes such as endometriosis, fibroids, or PID.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Mitchell-Foster 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. Mitchell-Foster practices in the heart of Prince George, BC, within a modern clinic located in the Downtown Prince George, Central neighborhood. The facility is situated conveniently near Downtown Prince George and Two Rivers Gallery, making it easy for patients to access. It is well-connected via the Prince George Transit System (BC Transit), providing public transportation options. The clinic is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring barrier-free access for all patients. Paid parking options are available nearby, offering convenient parking solutions for visitors. The facility is committed to providing a welcoming environment, ensuring that women of all ages feel comfortable and cared for during their visits.
- Are services from Dr. Mitchell-Foster, 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. Mitchell-Foster 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. Mitchell-Foster, 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. Mitchell-Foster 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. Mitchell-Foster's office or your referring doctor.
- How often do I need a Pap test, and what is it for?
- A Pap test (or Pap smear) is a screening procedure for cervical cancer. It checks for precancerous or cancerous cells on the cervix. Guidelines vary slightly by province but are generally recommended for women starting around age 21-25 (or once sexually active) and continuing every 2-3 years if results are normal. The frequency may change based on your age, medical history (including HPV status), and previous Pap test results. Dr. Mitchell-Foster will advise you on the appropriate screening schedule for your individual circumstances based on current provincial guidelines.
- 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. Mitchell-Foster, discuss normal development, menstrual health, contraception, STI prevention, and answer any questions in a confidential setting.
- How can Dr. Mitchell-Foster help with menopause symptoms?
- Dr. Mitchell-Foster 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.
- What are my options for pain management during labor discussed by Dr. Mitchell-Foster?
- Dr. Mitchell-Foster 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. Mitchell-Foster during your prenatal visits.
410-299 Victoria St, Blossom Medical Clinic
Prince George, BC V2L 5B8
Phone: (250) 277-1658 | Fax: (250) 277-1617
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Mitchell-Foster 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/332158/Mitchell-Foster%2CSheona