The Importance of the Valproate Pregnancy Prevention Programme for Women of Childbearing Age
Valproate is a medication used to treat epilepsy, migraines, and bipolar disorder. However, it has been associated with a high risk of birth defects and developmental problems when taken during pregnancy. As a result, the Valproate Pregnancy Prevention Programme (VPPP) was established to ensure that women of childbearing age who are prescribed valproate are fully informed of the risks and offered contraception to avoid pregnancy while on the medication.
What is the Valproate Pregnancy Prevention Programme?
The VPPP is a programme that provides information and support to healthcare professionals, women of childbearing age, and their families regarding the risks of valproate treatment during pregnancy. The programme was established in 2018 by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and is aimed at reducing the number of babies born with birth defects or developmental problems due to valproate exposure in utero.
The Risks of Valproate Exposure During Pregnancy
The risks associated with valproate exposure during pregnancy include a higher risk of birth defects, developmental problems, and cognitive impairment in the child. Studies have shown that up to 40% of children born to mothers who take valproate during pregnancy may have some form of developmental problem, including autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or dyslexia. The risk of birth defects, including neural tube defects, heart defects, and limb malformations, is also increased with valproate use during pregnancy.
How the Valproate Pregnancy Prevention Programme Works
Under the VPPP, healthcare professionals who prescribe valproate are required to inform women of childbearing age of the risks associated with the medication and the importance of using effective contraception while on the medication. Women who are already taking valproate are also provided with information on the risks and offered contraception if they are not already using it. In addition, healthcare professionals are required to conduct a pregnancy test before starting valproate treatment and at regular intervals during treatment to ensure that the patient is not pregnant.
The Importance of the Valproate Pregnancy Prevention Programme
The VPPP is essential in reducing the number of babies born with birth defects or developmental problems due to valproate exposure during pregnancy. By ensuring that women of childbearing age are fully informed of the risks and provided with effective contraception, the programme helps to prevent unplanned pregnancies that could result in valproate exposure during pregnancy. Healthcare professionals are also better equipped to identify and manage the risks associated with valproate treatment, ensuring that patients receive the appropriate level of care and support.
Conclusion
The Valproate Pregnancy Prevention Programme is a crucial initiative that aims to protect the health and wellbeing of women of childbearing age who are prescribed valproate. By providing information and support to healthcare professionals and patients, the programme helps to prevent unplanned pregnancies and reduce the number of babies born with birth defects or developmental problems due to valproate exposure in utero. Women who are prescribed valproate should be fully informed of the risks and offered effective contraception to avoid pregnancy while on the medication.
