The EPAU is led by a team of specialist midwife sonographers and maternity nurses supported by the gynaecology department and overseen by a specialist consultant.
The EPAU is a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week service based within the antenatal ward 19 at The James Cook University Hospital, providing advice, ultrasound scans and care for patients with pain and or bleeding in early pregnancy.
We also see patients who experience nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy, this is called hyperemesis. At the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton we also provide early pregnancy scans and appointments Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
How to contact us
Although pain and/or bleeding in pregnancy is not unusual and it does not always indicate a problem we understand that it can be an emotional and stressful time. If you feel you need to be seen in the EPAU or just want some advice please contact us via the details below and we will assess your symptoms and advise the most appropriate course of action. Please note that the EPAU is an appointment only service so please contact the advice line prior to attending.
The advice line is 24 hours and has an answer machine for non-urgent queries, however if you are experiencing heavy bleeding (soaking pads/passing clots) and or significant pain you should attend A&E.
Friarage Hospital, Northallerton, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.
Your appointment
If you have been given an appointment you are welcome to bring someone with you but we ask that you don’t bring any children. When you arrive please take a seat in the waiting area, there is no need to ring the bell, the midwife/nurse will be expecting you.
If you are attending for a scan please ensure that you have a full bladder. In early pregnancy it may be necessary to perform a transvaginal scan but we will discuss this with you if required.
You will be kept fully informed throughout your care, but please feel free to ask any questions or discuss any concerns at any time.