Incorporating contraceptive shared decision-making into consultations for individuals with epilepsy: facilitating a holistic and dynamic approach

Valproate is a teratogenic drug,1 where gestational exposure is associated with a higher risk of congenital malformations, and cognitive, language and psychomotor delay.1 In the UK, valproate is now contraindicated in women with reproductive potential unless a Pregnancy Prevention Programme (PPP) is in place2 incorporating highly effective contraception. A person-centred approach through shared decision-making (SDM) may be helpful for women and girls making complex health decisions.

SDM is the process of a healthcare professional (HCP) and patient working together to facilitate preference-based decisions and is one of the six quality statements set by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).3

Valproate treatment for epilepsy can be detrimental to both fertility and pregnancy outcomes. It also impacts contraception choices, resulting in consultations that are complex and nuanced.4 Specialist sexual and reproductive health staff adopting an SDM approach to consultations are ideally…

Read the full article ›