Early pregnancy units and problems in early pregnancy

Problems in early pregnancy are common, and many women will encounter them at some time in their reproductive life. It is important that the clinician is able to assess the woman who presents in early pregnancy, know what investigations are required and offer an appropriate choice of treatment. Early pregnancy units are an ideal setting for this to take place. Although many women who attend these units will leave reassured that the pregnancy is viable, miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy will be diagnosed in others. The clinical situation at presentation, the results of investigation and the circumstances of the woman will determine the appropriate management in each case—expectant, medical or surgical.