"Pregnancy and Epilepsy"

I am epileptic and recently delivered twins at Queen's Hospital Romford. I would like to offer my thanks, and praise the treatment I received throughout from my epilepsy nurse, obgyn, and the various midwives and doctors involved.

I already receive excellent care from the neurology department, particularly my epilepsy nurse, on a regular basis. We had complications leading up to the pregnancy and they helped me throughout, helping keep my epilepsy under control whilst also giving me excellent advice when it became evident we needed fertility treatment. This nurse has become a trusted friend. When I finally did get pregnant against the odds, they were thrilled and recommended I be referred to a specialist obgyn, who saw me on a regular basis throughout the pregnancy, along with my epilepsy nurse. I could not have got through the pregnancy without these wonderful people. I was always seen regularly, listened to and looked after, and every effort was made to keep me calm and provide reassurance throughout, keeping the twins safe and putting my mind at ease, which helped keep my epilepsy under control.

I decided to have a c-section once the twins passed 37 weeks and this was quickly arranged by my obgyn (who has,unfortunately, now left the hospital but was excellent throughout). All the midwives and doctors I encountered in all departments were lovely and extremely helpful- on the day and on 3 false alarms preceding their birth. The c-section was over quickly and with no issues, both babies were delivered without problems and the scar has healed very quickly. I was very scared and not at all brave but the midwives reassured me and the doctors and anaesthetist came round and explained what they were going to do, and took into account my epilepsy and history of anxiety. I also always had my epilepsy nurse looking after me and making sure I was ok. I was not left waiting and was seen immediately. The wards were all clean and I was given my own room to look after the twins, with my husband able to stay, and with constant help from the lovely midwives over a couple of days. I was allowed to stay as long as I wished, and discharged myself when ready.

We named our little one after my epilepsy nurse in honour of how highly we regard them, both for their help throughout the pregnancy but also for the many years they have looked after me in neurology regarding my epilepsy as well.

Throughout, I was never left waiting for an appointment, and I feel that, particularly my epilepsy nurse and the obgyns I saw, went above and beyond to look after me and our babies. I cannot thank them enough. I hope this gets to their management so they can be acknowledged for their work. I have also always had an excellent service from the neurology and epilepsy department in general over the years I have seen them- I have moved out of the area but asked to be referred to Queens because of this.

I would definitely recommend Queens for both neurology and maternity. Thank you all.