Patient knowledge about issues related to pregnancy in epilepsy: A cross-sectional study

In 2009, new guidelines were established by the American Academy of Neurology regarding pregnancy in women with epilepsy. A questionnaire was developed to assess patient knowledge of current guidelines related to epilepsy and pregnancy. Patients were recruited from a single outpatient clinic in a large Canadian tertiary care center. Patients were eligible to participate if they were female, of reproductive age, had active epilepsy for at least 6 months and were not cognitively impaired. One hundred women completed the survey (response rate 87%) with a median score of 40%. A significant association was found between total score and years of education (p < 0.001). Significant associations were not found between total score and epilepsy duration (p = 0.37), previously being pregnant (p = 0.22), and polytherapy (p = 0.31). Patient knowledge of the impact of epilepsy on pregnancy is low. More knowledge translation efforts are required to increase knowledge of issues related to pregnancy for women with epilepsy.

► Patient knowledge of women's reproductive issues in epilepsy was examined. ► We developed a questionnaire based on practice guidelines published in 2009. ► 100 female patients of reproductive age completed the questionnaire. ► Knowledge of outcomes and risks associated with pregnancy and epilepsy was poor. ► Effective patient education strategies must be implemented to increase knowledge.