Female patients and their carers should be counselled on the risk of valproate treatment during pregnancy. Ensure female patients are provided with relevant resources, to support their understanding of the risks. In particular the prescriber must ensure the patient understands:

• the risks associated with valproate during pregnancy;
• the need to use effective contraception;
• the need for regular review of treatment;
• the need to rapidly consult if she is planning a pregnancy or becomes pregnant
• https://www.gov.uk/guidance/valproate-use-by-women-and-girls