We are a new organisation providing support, and generating an awareness of teratogenic medicine. Teratogenic medicine is medicine that affects the foetus. Most medicines have a teratogenic effect. We support the family as we recognise that this is a challenge that affects the family unit. Many families are single parent as many families are unable to stay together under the stress caused by the situation from which they find themselves. The mother often has chronic health problems, caused by both the condition for which they take medicine and the effects of adverse drug reactions. This has meant that the disabled child is often, also, an unacknowledged disabled carer. The health problems within the family are complex, as are the areas of support that they need (education, social support, care, medical, mental health, various disabilities etc). to date we interact with.
Although not yet launched the directors have been involved in the process that led to sodium valproate no longer being given to those of child bearing potential. We work with UKTIS and other European teratogenic organisatons in order to promote an awareness of teratogens, and to enable patients to access those professionals who would like to learn more via different forms of research. We attend health care and social care events. We seek to develop literature and encourage opportunities whereby families affected can meet.
