The preconception care experiences of women with epilepsy on sodium valproate

Seizure : the Journal of the British Epilepsy Association
Lorna LawtherJim Morrow

Abstract

To understand the preconception experiences of women with epilepsy who have been taking the teratogenic drug valproate. Seven women were recruited, three from a preconception clinic and four from an antenatal clinic in a region of the UK. All had taken valproate preconceptionally. Three preconception clinic encounters were observed and audio-recorded. Interviews with all women were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Women experienced a "trajectory of balance". Women moved from "maintaining balance" by using valproate to control seizures, to a "shattering of harmony" at the prospect of changing medication and as a result of the physical and mental effects of changing medication, to "restoring balance" which could involve "a new self" due to dramatic changes. Women balanced their health needs with those of their baby, and took responsibility for medication decision-making. They found it difficult to see "who is looking after me" in the healthcare system, either to access preconception care, or to support them through the stress of changing medication. Their journey ended with coming to terms with a variety of experiences: choosing not to have a baby due to unsuccessful change from valproate, recognisin...Continue Reading

Citations

Dec 29, 2019·Acta Neurologica Scandinavica·Lauren HarrisHeather Angus-Leppan
Mar 1, 2020·Journal of Neurology·Yfke Huber-MollemaRoos Rodenburg

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