Meeting the Needs of the Postpartum Woman With Epilepsy

Abstract

Although pregnancy and postpartum are times of emotional and physical change for all women, women with epilepsy have additional concerns and face special challenges. This article describes the nursing care for this special population to help the clinical nurse provide for the safety of these women and their infants. A multidisciplinary approach is essential, and families need to be included in the care planning. Special considerations for medication management, additional rest, seizure precautions, and discharge instructions are described.

Women’s Issues in Epilepsy

“…alone, avoiding cosleeping in the event of nocturnal seizures, establishing multiple areas in the home for changing the baby, and utilizing a small stroller to maneuver the baby throughout the house. 95,96 Women should be monitored for mood changes because postpartum depression rates are higher in women with epilepsy who are multiparous or receiving antiseizure medication polytherapy. 97…”

“…Families with older children may practice “seizure drills,” including how to call for emergency assistance. Safety-oriented behavior includes changing the baby on a surface low to the ground, feeding the baby while seated on a padded surface low to the ground, avoiding bathing the baby alone, avoiding cosleeping in the event of nocturnal seizures, establishing multiple areas in the home for changing the baby, and utilizing a small stroller to maneuver the baby throughout the house 95,96 . Women should be monitored for mood changes because postpartum depression rates are higher in women with epilepsy who are multiparous or receiving antiseizure medication polytherapy 97 …”