ABSTRACT
Epilepsy is a relatively common neurological condition, and for most women their epilepsy will be well maintained in pregnancy, and they can expect good health for themselves and their offspring. However, concerns over teratogenic effects of some antiepileptic medication needs to be considered. Preconception planning to establish women on the lowest possible dose of the safest medication to keep women seizure free is advocated, and women need to feel confident to continue this medication after conception. Women with epilepsy may face barriers to confident parenting, and midwives are well placed to support and empower women to identify strategies to keep themselves and their babies safe.
Women with multiple sclerosis may face many emotional and physical challenges in pregnancy and will benefit from continuity of support from an individual or a small team of midwives who can work in partnership with the woman, within the multidisciplinary team, to meet her individual requirements.
Most headaches in pregnancy will be uncomplicated tension headaches. However, headaches can indicate more serious underlying complications including neurological haemorrhage and an association with pre-eclampsia. Midwives need to be skilled in assessment of headaches and related symptoms to ensure prompt and effective referral to appropriate members of the multidisciplinary team.
