Resources

Fertility may be the last thing on your mind when you’re experiencing the distress of having a body that doesn’t express your identity. Understandably, many trans and non-binary people are keen to start hormone therapy or have surgery as quickly as possible. However, you may find it a source of regret if you have treatment […]

Your Pregnancy Blood Test (BhCG) Once your embryo has been transferred, you will have been given a date to return for your pregnancy test. This is a quick blood test, performed on the unit in the morning. Staff will then contact you later in the day with the result and a plan of action. The […]

Skin prick testing is commonly used to assess if people are allergic to different allergens such as pollen, animal fur and dust. Do not take anti-histamine medication at least 48 hours prior to your appointment. At your appointment different allergen solutions will be placed onto your forearm.  A small needle will then be used to […]

What is the Strength and Balance Service? We are a partnership between Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust and Gateshead Council Public Health. The service targets over 65-year-olds who have a history of falls, a fear of falling and feel they are slowing down. You may have noticed that you’re a little slower than you used […]

Welcome to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. You are here because you need treatment that can only be provided in a hospital. We aim to discharge you from hospital as soon as you are well enough It’s important for us to work together to make sure you’re not in hospital any longer than you need to […]

How does the urinary system work? Urine is constantly produced by the kidneys. It then passes down the ureters (tubes from the kidneys) to the bladder. The bladder acts as a storage organ, which expands as it fills like a balloon. As the bladder fills messages are sent to the brain. When there is about […]

General advice Your child has been given insoles to wear inside their shoes. They may be made of plastic, leather or other material and are designed to help correct the foot position. They may be half or full length. What shoes can be worn? You will be able to buy your own shoes to wear […]

What happens when I attend the clinic? When the breast team is ready to see you, a nurse will take you in to a consulting room where you will be asked to undress above your waist and change in to a hospital gown. Please wear separates (skirt/trousers and top). You will then be examined by […]

What are they? Pulmonary Lung function test (PFT) or also called Lung or Breathing Test is a complete evaluation of the respiratory system including patient history, physical examinations, and tests of pulmonary function. The primary purpose of pulmonary function testing is to identify the severity of pulmonary impairment. They allows to measure parameters like: Your […]

Most girls start their periods between the ages of 11-14 years old but anywhere from 9-16 years is normal. Signs that puberty is starting are that breasts start to develop, and girls will start to grow pubic hair. It is usually around 2 years after this that periods will start. For girls with autism or […]