Details about our Emergency Room
24-hour emergency assessment and triage for urgent pregnancy, postnatal, and acute gynaecology concerns.
About the Emergency Room
We provide an adult emergency service for:
- Complications during pregnancy
- The first six weeks after the birth of your baby
- Acute gynaecology emergencies
Care is prioritised so that women with serious or life-threatening conditions are seen first.
Waiting times may vary depending on clinical urgency.
Before you attend
- If you have a recent history of vomiting and/or diarrhoea, please phone before attending.
- It is not advisable to bring children to the Emergency Room
- Recording devices are not permitted.
- You may find the Before You Call and Signs of Labour sections helpful.
- If you are unsure whether to attend, you are welcome to phone for advice.
Where do I go?
Patients attending the Emergency Room should:
- Present to the Front Hall / Reception of the National Maternity Hospital
- Register at the Admissions Office, confirm contact details, and provide the reason for attending
- Be accompanied to the Emergency Room waiting area, where the midwife will be informed
The hospital endeavours to see all women as quickly as possible.
Priority is given to women with serious or life-threatening conditions.
When to attend the Emergency Room during your pregnancy?
You should attend (or call for advice) if you experience:
- Reduced or changed baby movements
- Vaginal bleeding
- Abdominal pain
- Signs of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy
- Fever or high temperature
- Severe vomiting (hyperemesis)
- High blood pressure symptoms
- Injury or trauma (e.g. a fall)
If you are unsure, please call – we are here to help
For more information see Urgent Pregnancy and Postnatal Concerns
When to attend the Emergency Room after the birth of your baby
If you or your healthcare provider are concerned about your health, you may need to attend.
Common reasons include:
- Heavy or unusual bleeding
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Mastitis
- Wound concerns (caesarean or episiotomy)
- High blood pressure
Please note:
This Emergency Room is for adult care only. For concerns about your baby, contact your GP, Public Health Nurse or nearest children’s hospital.
Contact Information
NMH Emergency Room / Main Switchboard
Call if you are unsure whether to attend – a midwife can advise you.
Phone
Gynaecology Outpatient Clinic
Contact for non-urgent gynaecology concerns.
Phone
Hours
Monday–Friday, 08:00–16:00