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Early Pregnancy Service 

Our early pregnancy service is running as usual.

If you have any concerns and you are less than 14 weeks, please call the Early Pregnancy Answerphone Service – please leave a message with your name and phone number. The team dedicate time to responding to these calls every afternoon (closed on Sundays) with information and advice.

0208 725 0093

Our Service

The Early Pregnancy Unit (EPU) is open to any women who is less than 14 weeks pregnant who is experiencing symptoms they find concerning (e.g., vaginal bleeding or lower abdominal pain).

If you have had a previous miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, you can also be seen in EPU for a reassurance or pregnancy location scan.

The EPU is based in the Outpatients department on the ground floor of Lanesborough Wing.

Opening times:

Monday -Friday 08.30am-11.00am

Saturday 08.30am-11.00am – Emergencies only

Sundays and bank holidays – Closed

How do I get referred to EPU?

This is a walk- in service meaning that you can self-refer and do not need to have seen a GP first.  You must have a positive pregnancy test and be less than 14 weeks pregnant. Please note you may experience a wait of up to four hours.

When referred from the Emergency Department to come for 8.30am, please note that this is not an appointment, but the time at which the clinic opens. You will of course be assessed and triaged.

What happens in EPU?

When you arrive in the EPU, you need to book in with the receptionist – if the receptionist has not opened the door, please take a laminated number to the right of the door.  You will be given a form to complete regarding your pregnancy.  The nurses will prioritise women based on their needs, meaning that someone who arrives in clinic after you may be seen first.  There are also follow up clinics running at the same time for patients who have previously been seen in EPU.

The EPU is a nurse-led service.  You will have a consultation and scan with a nurse and in some cases a blood test will be taken.  The nurse will discuss the diagnosis with you and give you a management plan at the consultation.

It can be an extremely anxious time for everyone, and most people here are in the same situation. Please keep our receptionists updated on your condition and if anything changes or if you have any concerns.

What is a trans-vaginal scan?

A trans-vaginal scan involves an ultrasound scan probe being placed inside your vagina to allow the nurse to see into the pelvis to assess the pregnancy.  This is the most effective way of checking the pregnancy at an early stage.

Can I bring someone with me?

Yes, please bring someone with you to the appointment if you wish.

What if I need an interpreter?

An interpreter can be organised via Language Line for you.  If you require any follow-up care, an interpreter can be booked to attend these appointments with you.

What happens next?

If you have had a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy, we will discuss the management options with you depending on the findings and the necessary follow up can be arranged during the consultation.

Where can I find further information about pregnancy loss?

The Miscarriage Association

https://www.tommys.org

The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust

Additional services

Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) PALS can offer you on-the-spot advice and information when you have comments or concerns about our services or the care you have received. You can visit the PALS office between 9.30am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday in the main corridor between Grosvenor and Lanesborough wings (near the lift foyer). Tel: 020 8725 2453 Email: pals@stgeorges.nhs.uk