Early Pregnancy Assessment Unit

The EPAU provides support and advice for pregnant women who have a positive pregnancy test, are under 14 weeks in their pregnancy and are experiencing the following problems:

• Bleeding, spotting, abnormal vaginal discharge

• Abdominal pain

• Previous ectopic pregnancy

• Previous Molar pregnancy

• Recurrent miscarriage (3 or more)

Patients are referred by a healthcare professional (GP, midwife, Emergency Department) and appointments will be given at time of referral. The pregnancy test must be positive on the day of referral.

A walk-in service is not offered. All appointments must be booked, and clinics are held in the morning.

Women who have had a previous ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy or 3 consecutive miscarriages, can self-refer.

You do not need a full bladder as most scanning is transvaginal (internal), this is the clearest way to visualise early pregnancy.

You will be seen by a specialist nurse who will be ask you some questions and arrange a scan if appropriate. You may require a blood test or a further follow up appointment.

The time spent in the unit may vary. The average wait time is one to two hours to complete your appointment.

Please feel free to bring your partner or a friend.

Wherever possible please make childcare arrangements as they may not be permitted into the scan room.

Where to find us

Royal Bournemouth Hospital

First floor, Jigsaw building. 

Opening hours

Monday – Friday 8am – 4pm

Saturdays and Bank Holidays 8am - 1pm ( closed Christmas Day)

Phone number 0300 019 5713