'Conceivably Neglected' - Are prescribers sufficiently aware of the risks of prescribing sodium valproate to women with mental illness?

Objectives: To describe prescription of sodium valproate (SV) for bipolar mood disorder to potentially child-bearing women within one public mental health service and describe risks of fetal exposure, and safe prescribing practices among psychiatrists.

Methods: A 24-month retrospective chart review with descriptive analysis; narrative review of literature and guidelines.

Results: Review of 383 charts demonstrated prescription of valproate to 20% of 98 women aged 15-45, with little evidence of advice regarding risk and contraception.