Early Pregnancy Assessment Unit (EPAU)

This is not a walk-in service, we operate an appointment system only 

The EPAU is a specialist unit that manages early pregnancy problems such as vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain. We see women in the first 17 weeks of pregnancy only (up to 14 weeks at Basildon University Hospital).

We are a nurse-led service, supported by sonographers and the on-call gynaecology medical team, including a lead consultant gynaecologist. 

When necessary, EPAU staff will provide ongoing support and advice either in person or by telephone.

Getting an appointment

If you see your GP, go to the Emergency Department or see another health professionals and they think you need to be referred to the unit, they can refer you by email using the EPAU referral form[doc] 242KB.

The team in EPAU assess your referral and then contact patients by telephone within a few days, so please check that all your contact details are up to date. You might just need a telephone consultation, but if you need an appointment, we'll arrange that with you.

The image below shows the referral process

For more information please contact your nearest EPAU service. Check locations below for opening times and contact details.

What to expect

You will be seen by a clinician and we might perform an ultrasound scan so that we can visualise the pregnancy. The scan may be done externally through the abdomen, or internally through the vagina. Neither of these are harmful to the pregnancy. Depending on the outcome of the scan, you might need a blood test.

Early pregnancy information websites

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
www.rcog.org.uk
www.miscarriageassociation.org.uk
www.ectopic.org.uk
www.womens-health.co.uk

Opening times and location

Basildon University Hospital

09.00-17.00 Monday to Friday 
Level D- Maternity Department
Nethermayne, Basildon, Essex SS16 5NL

Telephone - click to call on a mobile: 01268 524900 ext 8030

Women up to 14 weeks only

Broomfield Hospital

09.00-17.00 Monday to Friday
Gosfield Ward, A203
Court Rd, Broomfield, Chelmsford CM1 7ET
Telephone - click to call on a mobile: 01245 513037 (diverted out of hours to Ward)

Women up to 17 weeks pregnant only 

Southend University Hospital

08.00-16.00 Monday to Friday
Eastwood Ward, Cardigan Wing
Prittlewell Chase, Westcliff on Sea, Essex, SS0 0RY
Telephone - click to call on a mobile: 01702 385532 or 01702 385534

Women up to 17 weeks pregnant only