The care of pregnant women with epilepsy

This article gives a brief introductory outline of epilepsy in order to enhance knowledge and understanding of this condition. The most recent Confidential Enquiry into Maternal Deaths in the United Kingdom' identifies a rising mortality rate for pregnant women with epilepsy. Midwives have a pivotal role in pre-pregnancy counselling with regard to the maintenance/adjustment of drug therapy and the administration of folic acid in order to prevent fetal abnormality. Effective antenatal care ensures ongoing education, and drug compliance will reduce the risk of epileptic seizures during pregnancy. Infant health is promoted through breastfeeding and the administration of vitamin K to both mother and neonate to reduce the risk haemorrhagic disease of the newborn