To assess the knowledge of women issues and epilepsy among doctors in Gujarat.

In this cross-sectional study, we used Google forms to collect data from 201 doctors. The questionnaire consisted of 20 questions addressing issues that affect WWE, including hormone sensitive seizures, effects of anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) on oral contraception, pregnancy and breast-feeding.

Our studied group included physician (n=114) and Obstetrician (n=87).  The majority of participants were aware of the role of folic acid in reducing teratogenicity of AEDs(91%) and that WWE should not stop taking AEDs during pregnancy(97%). Most of participants were aware that enzyme-inducing AEDs may reduce effectiveness of some contraceptives(88.1%) and WWE should consult her  neurologist/physician before planning pregnancy(92.5%). Three fourth of participants were aware that women taking AEDs can safely breastfeed(77.6%) and Cesarean section is not recommended for majority of WWE(74.6%) . Half of participants were aware that the teratogenic effects of Valproate is dose dependent(50. 7%) and estrogen has a proconvulsant effect while progesterone has anticonvulsant qualities(49.3%). Less than half of participants aware that WWE have an increased risk of having a small for- gestational age infant(43.3%) and women taking AEDs do not have increased risk of pregnancy-related complications(40.3%). Only one-third of participants(34.3%) knew that WWE have high likelihood of remaining seizure free during pregnancy if they were seizure free prior to conception for 9 moths. The mean score of our participants was 13.54(±2.46) out of 20. There was no  statistically significant difference between knowledge of physician and Obstetrician (p=0.429).

Majority of the obstetricians and physicians’  knowledge was satisfactory. A well-planned education in this area to all health care professionals is essential to improve the care of WWE.