The early pregnancy unit
If you have been given an appointment to attend the Early Pregnancy Unit this may be because you have experienced bleeding or pain in early pregnancy or because you may have had complications in the past.
Please note: the Early Pregnancy Unit is not a walk in clinic, you need to have been referred to the clinic by a healthcare professional.
Find out more about Pain and bleeding in early pregnancy
What will happen at the appointment?
When you arrive, please complete the form given to you at the Reception desk. Please check your personal details and add any relevant medical information. Please ask if you need help filling in the form.
The clinic has timed appointments. At times emergency patients will take priority and you may have to wait a little longer for your scan.
A urine sample will be taken to check a pregnancy test. A scan will be performed by a sonographer or consultant gynacologist only if your pregnancy test is positive. If your pregnancy test is negative a scan will not be performed and a nurse will offer you advice.
Do I need a full bladder?
You do not need a full bladder. In most cases the scan will be performed transvaginally (internally).
Why do I need an internal scan?
In the first few weeks of pregnancy, the uterus (womb) is still within the pelvis and it is easier to see a pregnancy and other pelvic structures with an internal scan. The ultrasound probe is inserted into the vagina.
After 9 weeks of pregnancy you will usually have a transabdominal scan with the probe being placed externally on the skin of the lower tummy (abdomen). You may also still require an internal scan, particularly if you have presented with pain or heavy bleeding.
Both ways of scanning are safe and will not increase the risk of a miscarriage. If further information is required we will advise you to have a repeat scan 7-14 days later.
Do I have to have an internal scan?
No. If you do not want to have the internal scan we can still do an external scan. You need to be aware that this will not provide as much information. For an abdominal scan we would advise you not to empty your bladder. Please ask the sonographer/consultant about your choices.
Following the scan the nurse will discuss the scan findings and the next steps in your care.
Blood tests
You may need to have blood tests to check hormone levels and possibly your blood group.
At all times we will talk to you about the findings of the scans and any blood tests that you may have a further scan or blood tests may be recommended at a later stage.
Contact numbers:
If you’ve had previous complications or are known to the Early Pregnancy Unit you can call us on the numbers below for advice.
Early Pregnancy Unit (Monday-Friday)
Stoke Mandeville Hospital 01296 316469/316143 (8am-5pm hours)
SAU (Surgical Assessment Unit) 01296 316500/316365 (at all other times)