This pamphlet explains the differences between medical and procedural abortions. How each type of abortion works, and the advantages and disadvantages of each type are listed. Who to contact for further information is included.
This sheet provides general skin care instructions for after a vulvar biopsy or vulvar excision.
Instructions for after your abortion are given, including a list of activities to avoid for 24 hours (1 day). A list of symptoms that require medical attention is provided. Information on preventing infection, what to expect after you go home, and who to contact if you have questions is given. A link to a feedback survey and contact information for free counselling is provided. The French version of this pamphlet 2109, "Après votre intervention", is also available.
Before you leave the hospital, it is important to talk to your health care provider about birth control. Moms and babies do better when pregnancies are spaced at least 18 months apart. Planning ahead and/or using birth control can help with this. This pamphlet explains the different birth control methods that can be used after having a baby. A list of resources is included.
A colposcopy is an examination of the cervix using a special microscope called a colposcope. This pamphlet describes why you were referred for a colposcopy test, what will happen during the appointment, and afterward including next steps based on test results. Terms used in the guide are explained.
A Pap test checks for cell changes on the cervix and is an important screening test for cervical cancer. This pamphlet explains the different results and next steps.
Prostin® is a gel. It contains medication called dinoprostone (prostaglandin E2). Dinoprostone PGE2 (or Prostin®) is like a natural substance made by your body. It softens the cervix to get it ready for labour. This pamphlet explains what to expect when you get Prostin®, possible complications of Prostin®, and when you should call or return to the hospital. The French version of this pamphlet 1817, "Maturation cervicale au moyen du gel vaginal de dinoprostone (ProstinMD)", is also available.
Guidelines for cervical screening are explained, including who should be screened and how frequently. Those who should be screened more frequently are outlined.
This pamphlet describes the recovery process after High Dose-Rate (HDR) Brachytherapy treatment for gynecological cancers. It outlines what to expect, possible side effects, and details for contacting your health care team with any questions or concerns.
High blood pressure in pregnancy (also called gestational hypertension) is a blood pressure (BP) that stays higher than 140/90 (140 over 90). For most people, a normal blood pressure is 140/90 or less. After week 20 of your pregnancy, high blood pressure can be linked to pre-eclampsia. This is a more serious condition that includes high blood pressure and protein in the urine (pee). Because pre-eclampsia can be dangerous to you and your baby, we ask you to monitor your blood pressure and sympto…
This 1-page sheet outlines instructions for applying steroid ointment to your vulva to treat your particular skin condition. A diagram is provided to show you exactly where to apply the ointment. Tips to remember and special instructions are given. The French version of this pamphlet 2111, "Comment appliquer votre onguent stéroïde", is also available.
Induction of labour is when a method or medication is used to start labour before it starts on its own. The goal of induction is to have a vaginal birth. This pamphlet explains why you are being offered induction, how it is done, how long it takes, and what will happen when you come to the hospital. What to do if your induction is postponed is also discussed. The French version of this pamphlet 1813, "Déclenchement artificiel du travail", is also available.
A balloon catheter is a soft tube with a small balloon on the end. The balloon catheter helps to get your cervix ready for labour (cervical ripening). This pamphlet explains what will happen when the balloon catheter is inserted (put in), possible complications of a balloon catheter, and when you should call or return to the hospital. The French version of this pamphlet 1814, "Déclenchement artificiel du travail et maturation cervicale au moyen d’un cathéter à ballonnet", is also available.
Cervidil® is a thin, flat insert, like a tampon. It contains medication called dinoprostone. Dinoprostone is like a natural substance made by your body. It softens your cervix to get it ready for labour. This pamphlet explains what to expect when you get Cervidil®, possible complications of Cervidil®, and when you should call or return to the hospital. The French version of this pamphlet 1815, "Déclenchement artificiel du travail et maturation cervicale au moyen d’une insertion vaginale de dino…
Misoprostol is a pill that contains a medication called prostaglandin E1. Prostaglandin E1 softens the cervix to get it ready for labour and to cause labour contractions. Cytotec® is the brand name of this medication. This pamphlet explains what to expect when you get misoprostol, possible complications of misoprostol, and when you should notify a member of your health care team. The French version of this pamphlet 1816, "Déclenchement artificiel du travail et maturation cervicale au moyen de c…
This pamphlets provides information for patients receiving radiation therapy to the pelvis. Answers common questions like: what will happen during your treatment, how long are the treatments, and what are the possible side effects of radiation therapy.
Condoms are birth control devices that prevent semen (the fluid that contains sperm) from entering a vagina or anus. When semen is released inside a vagina, it may reach an egg and fertilize it, causing pregnancy. Condoms also help prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, if used properly. There are 2 types of condoms: internal (worn on the inside of the vagina or anus) and external (worn on the outside of an erect penis). This pamphlet explains what internal…
A laparoscopic hysterectomy is an operation to remove your uterus (womb) and cervix through your vagina. The ovaries and fallopian tubes are often taken out at the same time. After surgery you will have an intravenous (IV), a catheter (tube) to drain urine from your bladder, and a dressing on your abdomen (stomach area). Topics in this pamphlet include breathing, managing pain, vaginal bleeding, incision care, blood clots and your menstrual cycle. Information on care at home and sex after surge…
Lichen sclerosus is a life-long condition that creates patchy white areas of the skin. It may affect any part of the body, but it most often involves the skin of the vulva (opening to the vagina) and around the anus. This pamphlet explains the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, follow-up care, and contact information for the Colposcopy Clinic.
This pamphlet explains what a medical abortion is, who can get a medical abortion, what happens during a medical abortion, and possible risks and side effects. Instructions for taking the medication Mifegymiso to cause a medical abortion, and who to contact for further information are included. The French version of this pamphlet 1861, "Avortement par médicaments", is also available.