Disorders of the nervous system

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. 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. 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. Some women with epilepsy may suffer with low self-esteem related to the issues of living with the unpredictable nature of seizures and the impact this may have on relationships, employment and social activities. Cerebral function works by the constant exchange of electrical signals along neural networks. Neurons are the cells of the nervous system, which is made up of the brain and spinal cord. The location and extent of excessive neuronal discharge gives rise to varying symptoms and types of epilepsy. Seizures can be triggered by certain events, and self-management of the condition seeks to minimise conditions that provoke a seizure.