We operate a 24-hour assessment room to deal with cases of emergency which can be found on the ground floor of Liverpool Women’s Crown Street site. It is important to bring your hand-held notes to all antenatal appointments as they contain important information about your care.

Women’s bodies go through a lot of changes during pregnancy. But while some bouts of discomfort and irritation can be self-managed, others should be checked out by your GP or midwife:

• Baby Movements: If at any time you feel your baby is moving around less frequently or slowing down or has changed the pattern of their movements please attend the Maternity Assessment Unit (MAU) immediately. 
• Abdominal pain: while it’s normal to have slight contractions through pregnancy (this is when you feel your stomach contracting and relaxing), if you experience a sudden, sharp on going pain that won’t go away please come to come to the MAU immediately.
• Bleeding: whilst bleeding in pregnancy can be normal, it can also be a sign that something is wrong, especially if it is accompanied by pain. If you are 20 weeks or less please come to the Gynaecology Emergency Room. If you are 20 weeks plus, please attend the MAU immediately.
• Pain when passing urine: this could be a sign of infection which will need treatment. Drink plenty of fluid and contact your GP within 24 hours. 
• Severe itching: while itching is common in pregnancy, severe itching without a rash (particularly in the last four months of pregnancy) can be a sign of a potentially dangerous liver disorder. Contact us on 0151 702 4413 if you are at all concerned.
• Swollen ankles or hands: normally common but any sudden changes should be reported to your GP or midwife as it could be a sign of pre-eclampsia – high blood pressure and fluid retention in pregnancy.
• Vaginal discharge: a discharge that is smelly or bloodstained may point to infection and you should be seen by your midwife or GP.
• Headaches or dizziness: may indicate a change in your blood pressure which could be dangerous in pregnancy. Contact us on 0151 702 4413 if you are at all concerned.
• Diarrhoea, vomiting or high fever: any sudden ‘acute’ illnesses should be referred immediately to your GP or midwife.