Gynaecological Emergencies

Some gynaecological situations require immediate care. Here are the warning signs and the numbers to call.

15
SAMU — Medical Emergencies (France)
112
European Emergency
01 45 82 44 46
SOS Doctors Marseille

⚠ Heavy genital bleeding

Very heavy vaginal bleeding (soaking through a pad per hour for more than 2 hours) or bleeding accompanied by faintness, dizziness or pallor requires an immediate call to 15. This may occur outside of periods, during pregnancy, or after menopause.

⚠ Sudden severe pelvic pain

Intense pelvic pain of sudden onset may indicate adnexal torsion (ovarian torsion), a ruptured ovarian cyst or an ectopic pregnancy. If the pain is unbearable, accompanied by nausea, vomiting or faintness, call 15 immediately.

⚠ Suspected ectopic pregnancy

In early pregnancy, the combination of lateralised pelvic pain and irregular bleeding (dark, light flow) should raise suspicion of an ectopic pregnancy. This is a life-threatening emergency as tubal rupture can cause internal haemorrhage. Go to the emergency department or call 15.

⚠ Post-operative fever

After gynaecological surgery, a fever above 38.5 °C, chills, increasing abdominal pain or foul-smelling discharge may indicate a post-operative infection. Contact your surgeon or go to the emergency department without delay.

⚠ Bleeding during pregnancy

Any vaginal bleeding during pregnancy must be evaluated promptly. In the first trimester, it may be a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy. In the second or third trimester, it may indicate placenta praevia or placental abruption, which are obstetric emergencies. Call 15 or go to the maternity ward.

⚠ Acute pelvic infection

Pelvic pain with fever, purulent or foul-smelling vaginal discharge, and deteriorated general condition may indicate acute salpingitis, a tubo-ovarian abscess or pelvic peritonitis. These infections require urgent antibiotic therapy and sometimes hospitalisation.

⚠ Sexual assault

In case of sexual assault, go to the forensic emergency department as quickly as possible (ideally within 72 hours). Do not wash or change clothes before the medical examination. You can call 3919 (Women's Violence Helpline, France) or 17 (Police). The medical examination and care are free and confidential.

Important: this page is provided for informational purposes and does not replace medical advice. If in doubt, always call 15 (SAMU) or 112. Never face an emergency alone.

Non-urgent consultation?

Book an appointment online for a personalised consultation.

Book on Doctolib