Emergency Gynaecology Assessment Unit

Who may be referred to the Emergency Gynaecology Assessment Unit?
Women with a negative pregnancy test and: 

  • acute lower abdominal or pelvic pain which persists despite rest/use of simple analgesia
  • heavy vaginal bleeding
  • vulval swellings or abscesses
  • post operative complications, within 6 weeks of gynaecological surgery
  • symptoms suggestive of retained products of conception within 6 weeks of delivery (new onset of pain, persistent bleeding)
  • OHSS (Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome)


How can I access referral to the Unit?
Women can be referred to EGAU by their GP or Emergency Department.

What would happen at an emergency gynaecology assessment?
An assessment may involve a blood test or internal examination. It may include an ultrasound scan or other investigations, for example, to rule out infection that may be causing your symptoms. The staff here will listen to your symptoms and carry out the best tests depending on what you are experiencing.
 
This is an emergency unit and appointment times are not guaranteed. We will try and see you as quickly and as efficiently as we can.

You also need to know that it may be a male doctor or sonographer that you will see when you attend. Please bring two forms of ID when you come to any appointments within the department. Due to the nature of the unit, location and space, we do not allow any children onto the unit under the age of 18. If you attend the unit with a child, sadly your appointment will need to be rebooked. 
 
How do you do an emergency gynaecology ultrasound scan?
We normally do an ultrasound by placing a probe on the lower part of your tummy - there is no need to remove your clothes. However, sometimes your bladder is empty, or we may just not be able to see clearly, and we may ask if we can carry out an internal scan. This involves placing a probe, a little like a tampon, inside your vagina. It does not hurt you  and it can allow us to see things in more detail.

When are you open?
The Unit is open Monday-Friday 08:00 — 17:00, and Saturday / Sunday / Bank Holidays 08;00 — 11:00. When we are closed, you can get medical help via your GP or minor injury unit. The Emergency Department can support with any emergency care.

How do I find you to attend my appointment?
We are based on the first floor of the Women and Children Unit at Peterborough City Hospital. Please follow the signs for Women's Health Ward / EGAU.