About
As a skilled Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), Dr. Vanessa Han 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 or hospital setting in Burnaby, BC, she provides accessible and high-quality care to the community. Her practice adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Han's focus is on delivering comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, with a commitment to supporting women's health at every stage of life.
Dr. Han graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in 2012 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She holds certifications including Fellowship from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating her commitment to maintaining high standards in her specialty. Her training has equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide evidence-based, compassionate care for her patients.
Dedicated to patient-centered care, Dr. Han emphasizes shared decision-making and individualized treatment plans tailored to each woman's unique health needs and preferences. She is committed to promoting women's health in Burnaby through education, prevention, and compassionate clinical practice. She speaks English fluently and strives to create a welcoming environment for all her patients, ensuring they feel informed and supported throughout their healthcare journey.
Dr. Vanessa Han 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.
Infertility and Reproductive Health
- Ovulatory Dysfunction (e.g., Anovulation, Oligo-ovulation): Problems with ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary), such as infrequent or absent ovulation, a common cause of infertility.
- Female Infertility Evaluation & Initial Management: Comprehensive assessment to identify potential causes of difficulty conceiving in women and initiation of basic treatments.
- Uterine Factors Affecting Fertility (e.g., Septum, Asherman's Syndrome): Structural abnormalities or conditions of the uterus that can interfere with implantation or pregnancy maintenance.
Common Benign Gynecological Conditions
- Bartholin's Gland Cysts/Abscesses: Blockage and subsequent swelling or infection of the Bartholin's glands, located near the vaginal opening.
- 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.
- Vulvodynia & Vulvar Pain Syndromes: Chronic pain or discomfort around the opening of the vagina (vulva) for which there's no identifiable cause, requiring careful 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. Vanessa Han or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.
- External Cephalic Version (ECV) for Breech Presentation: Procedure to attempt to turn a breech baby to a head-down position before labor, if appropriate.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Tubal Ligation / Salpingectomy for Sterilization: Surgical methods for permanent female contraception, including removal of fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) which may also reduce ovarian cancer risk.
- 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.
- Endometrial Ablation & Resection: Minimally invasive procedures to destroy or remove the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in appropriate candidates.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Han 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. Han's practice is located in a clinic setting in the vibrant neighborhood of Capitol Hill in Burnaby, BC, within Burnaby Heights. The facility is conveniently situated near Burnaby Mountain Park and Simon Fraser University (SFU), making it accessible for patients from surrounding areas. Easily reachable via TransLink, including SkyTrain Expo and Millennium Lines, as well as local bus routes, the clinic offers excellent transit options. The facility is wheelchair accessible and provides parking facilities for patients arriving by car, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience for all.
- Are services from Dr. Han, 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. Han 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. Han, 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. Han 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. Han's office or your referring doctor.
- What birth control options can Dr. Han discuss with me?
- Dr. Han can discuss a wide range of contraceptive options tailored to your individual needs and preferences. These include hormonal methods (like birth control pills, patches, vaginal rings, injections, hormonal IUDs, contraceptive implants), non-hormonal methods (like copper IUDs, condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps), and permanent sterilization methods (tubal ligation or Essure for women, vasectomy referral for men). The best option depends on your health, lifestyle, menstrual cycle characteristics, and family planning goals. Dr. Han will help you make an informed choice.
- What is an IUD insertion like? Does Dr. Han perform this?
- Yes, Dr. Han 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. Han 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. She ensures a professional and comfortable experience, guiding you through the process and addressing any concerns.
- What does an Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) like Dr. Han do?
- An Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), like Dr. Han, is a medical doctor specializing in women's reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. They provide care throughout a woman's life, including prenatal care, labor and delivery, postpartum support, diagnosis and treatment of gynecological conditions (e.g., infections, fibroids, endometriosis, menstrual disorders), family planning, contraceptive management, preventative screenings like Pap tests, and management of menopausal symptoms.
- How can Dr. Han help with menopause symptoms?
- Dr. Han 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.
326 Gilmore Ave, North Burnaby Obstetrics and Gynecology
Burnaby, BC V5C 4R1
Phone: (604) 294-8550 | Fax: (604) 294-8560
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Han 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/339598/Han%2CVanessa