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Valproate preconception — DFSRH MCQ

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HardReproductive HealthValproate preconceptionDFSRH

A 27-year-old woman taking sodium valproate for epilepsy wants to stop contraception and try to conceive next month. She has no recent seizures. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Advise urgent specialist review before stopping contraception

Valproate is highly teratogenic and pregnancy planning needs urgent specialist review before conception. Stopping valproate abruptly can cause seizures. Contraception should continue until a safer plan is agreed.

Reference: FSRH Contraception After Pregnancy Guideline; NICE Abortion Care Guideline; NICE Antenatal Care; BNF