The early pregnancy unit
Read our guide below about our Early Pregnancy Unit.
You can also download a PDF version of this patient information by following the link on the right.
Why have I been given an appointment to attend the Early Pregnancy Unit?
This is normally because you had bleeding or pain in early pregnancy or because you have had complications in the past.
What will happen at the appointment?
When you arrive, complete the form given to you at the reception desk. Check your personal details and add any relevant medical information. 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. We’ll take a urine sample to check a pregnancy test. A sonographer or consultant gynaecologist will do a scan.
Do I need a full bladder?
No you don’t need a full bladder. In most cases the scan will be done transvaginally (internally).
Why do I need an internal scan?
In the first few weeks of pregnancy, the uterus (womb) is still within the pelvis. It’s 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’ll usually have a transabdominal scan with the probe being placed externally on the skin of the lower tummy (abdomen). You may also still need an internal scan, particularly if you have presented with pain or heavy bleeding.
Both ways of scanning are safe and won’t increase the risk of a miscarriage. If we need more information we’ll advise you to have a repeat scan 7 to 14 days later.
Do I have to have an internal scan?
No. If you don’t want to have the internal scan we can still do an external scan. This won’t provide as much information. For an abdominal scan we advise you not to empty your bladder. 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 blood tests to check hormone levels and possibly your blood group. We’ll discuss the findings of the scans and any blood tests that you may have. We may recommend a further scan or blood tests at a later stage.
Patient experience survey
If you’re happy to feedback on your visit to the clinic, write your e-mail address on the form at the reception desk so we can contact you. If you don’t want to be contacted that’s fine too, it won’t affect your care in any way.
Anything you write will be completely anonymous and help us to improve our service.
Contact us
If you have any side-effects or want to ask anything else about your treatment.
Early Pregnancy Unit, Stoke Mandeville Hospital (Monday to Friday)
01296 316469 (8am to 5pm)
Surgical Assessment Unit
01296 316500/316365 (at all other times)