Abstract
Epilepsy affects 1 in 200 women of childbearing age and is a cause of maternal death. For the fetus and neonate, epilepsy is associated with a significant risk of major and minor congenital anomalies, related to the use of anti-convulsant medication. Recent guidance published by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence and recommendations from the CEMACH reports into maternal deaths and perinatal mortality, have clearly recommended the need for multi-disciplinary team management of these women during pregnancy and the need for pre-conceptual care and advice. There is a clear opportunity to reduce the risks to both mother and fetus if we embed these in our practice. The teratogenic potential of anti-convulsants is discussed, and the most recent recommendations for contraception for women with epilepsy, which apply to women pre-pregnancy and post delivery.
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