NHS Forth Valley – Early Pregnancy Care

We provide care and support for women in the early stages of pregnancy who are experiencing pain, bleeding, or have concerns about their pregnancy.

Our Early Pregnancy Assessment Service (EPAS) is available to women between 6 and 14 weeks of pregnancy. Find out more about early pregnancy on NHS Inform.

When to Contact Us

Under 6 weeks pregnant – phone EPAS on 01324 567119 for advice.
6-14 weeks pregnant – phone EPAS on 01324 567119 to arrange assessment.
Over 14 weeks pregnant – contact Maternity Triage on 01324 567098.

If you experience very heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, dizziness, or collapse, seek immediate medical help.

Common Concerns

For medical condition information, please visit:

Bleeding in Early Pregnancy | NHS Inform

Miscarriage | NHS Inform

Ectopic Pregnancy (Including Methotrexate treatment) | NHS Inform

HCG Tracking

If an early scan cannot confirm your pregnancy is in the womb (pregnancy of unknown location), we will take two blood tests 48 hours apart to measure your pregnancy hormone (hCG).

Rising quickly – likely a continuing pregnancy (we will arrange another scan)
Falling – likely a miscarriage
Slow or no change – may suggest an ectopic pregnancy (further checks needed)

We will contact you with your results. Seek urgent help if you have heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, fainting, or collapse:

EPAS: 01324 567119 (Mon-Fri, 09:30–16:30)
Ward 6 (out of hours): 01324 566388 / 566389 / 566390

Local Services

Early Pregnancy Assessment Service (EPAS)

Location: Forth Valley Royal Hospital
Phone: 01324 567119 (Mon–Fri, 09:30–16:30)
Assessment usually within 72 hours.
One support person can attend with you.

Ward 6 Gynaecology

Phone: 01324 566390 (24/7 for urgent advice)

Bereavement

If you have experienced pregnancy loss, you may be given information about:

Emotional support and counselling.
Options for cremation or burial (including hospital-arranged shared cremation or private arrangements via a funeral director).
Memory items (hand/footprints, photographs, name cards).
Spiritual care and remembrance options (Book of Remembrance, Memory Tree, Remembering Little Stars).

For more information visit:

Local Support:

Women & Children’s Bereavement Team: 01324 566799 (Mon/Wed/Fri 9–5)
The Miscarriage Association: 01924 200799
SANDS: 020 7436 5881

Follow-Up & Future Pregnancies

Follow-up appointments may be offered with your consultant to discuss any test results.
If you have had an ectopic pregnancy or certain treatments (e.g., methotrexate), you may need to wait before trying again – your care team will advise.