Understanding the experiences of pregnancy in women with epilepsy

Boardman, Stephanie Grace

Abstract

This portfolio comprises of three parts: a systematic literature review, an empirical
report and appendices.

Part one is a systematic literature review in which empirical literature relating to
teratogenic risk perceptions of medication in pregnant women is reviewed and critically evaluated. The review attempts to determine how pregnant women perceive teratogenic risk associated with medication (over the counter and prescription) and reports on the intrapersonal factors associated with these perceptions. The review links the findings with theory and recommendations for clinical practice and future research are made.

Part two is an empirical paper which used qualitative methodologies to explore the lived experiences of pregnancy in women with epilepsy. To achieve this, seven women who were either pregnant or who had given birth to their babies within nine months attended a semi-structured interview with the main researcher which was analysed using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Themes are discussed at length and considered within both a pregnancy and epilepsy context. The clinical implications and methodological limitations are also discussed and areas requiring further research are
identified.

Part three comprises appendices and a reflective account of the research process.

Citation

Boardman, S. G. Understanding the experiences of pregnancy in women with epilepsy. (Thesis). University of Hull. https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4214978

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Jan 28, 2014
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 23, 2023
• Keywords: Clinical psychology
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4214978
• Additional Information: Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychological Therapies, The University of Hull
• Award Date: Jun 1, 2013