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Valproate pregnancy prevention — DFSRH MCQ

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HardReproductive healthValproate pregnancy preventionDFSRH

A 24-year-old with epilepsy takes sodium valproate and has started a new relationship. She is not using contraception and does not want pregnancy. BMI is 25 kg/m2 and she has regular periods. What is the most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: D — Urgent highly effective contraception discussion and specialist medication review

Valproate is highly teratogenic, so pregnancy prevention requires urgent, reliable contraception and specialist review of antiseizure therapy. Condoms alone may be inadequate for someone strongly avoiding pregnancy. Stopping valproate abruptly risks seizures and should not be done without specialist input.

Reference: MHRA Valproate Pregnancy Prevention Programme; FSRH UKMEC; BNF