Pregnancy test before planned surgery

When you come into hospital for your operation you will be asked to give a urine sample for a pregnancy test on the morning of the operation. 

This is something hospitals all across the country are doing and specifically has been recommended as a way of enhancing safety by national organisations on how to best care for patients. 

Why am I being asked to do this?

Pregnancy testing before surgery is recommended for suitable patients aged 12–55 years of age. It allows us to provide you with appropriate information to help you make a decision on what to do next.

I am sure I’m not pregnant—must I have the test?

Nobody is compelled to have a pregnancy test. If you decide not to be tested you will be asked to sign a note to say that you have made that decision. This may be the obvious thing to do for some people such as those who have had a hysterectomy. We would recommend that even people confident about their contraception check with a pregnancy test.

We may need to postpone your procedure if you decide not be tested.

On the day of surgery

Why is it important?

The very early stage of pregnancy, maybe even before the pregnancy has been recognised, is the time when an embryo may be most vulnerable to ill effects of medicines, X-rays and anaesthetics. Operations on the abdomen and pelvis can directly affect the womb and even operations (or occasionally complications) on other parts of the body may involve medicines that can affect pregnancy.

If I am pregnant, will my operation be cancelled?

Pregnancy is just one factor in your decision to have an operation. If you are pregnant, your team will discuss the implications of this with you. You will be able to decide together whether you should go ahead, consider another treatment or delay treatment.

I am on my period now—why do I need a pregnancy test?

It is still possible for you to be pregnant and have a period in the early stages of pregnancy. This is why hospital policy is to provide the test to ensure we provide the best possible care for you.

Useful contacts

If you wish to discuss any aspect of your care, or if you have any worries, you can contact Gynaecology Outpatients on 020 3315 8000.