What is known about the barriers and facilitators to physical activity participation among females with epilepsy: A scoping review

BACKGROUND: Epilepsy is associated with reduced physical activity participation and quality of life, with multiple factors influencing engagement in physical activity. OBJECTIVE: This scoping review aimed to explore the barriers and facilitators to physical activity participation among females aged 12 years and older with epilepsy. DESIGN: Scoping review. METHODS: A systematic search was conducted across five databases (PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Embase, and MEDLINE) from database inception to March 2025, with no date restrictions. The search was guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and reported in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Eligible sources included qualitative, quantitative, mixed-methods studies, case reports, and grey literature examining barriers and facilitators to physical activity participation in females with epilepsy aged 12 years and older. Data was analysed using a descriptive thematic approach. RESULTS: Ten studies were included, comprising five qualitative studies, one cross-sectional study, one case report, one case-control study, one case series and one quasi-experimental study, published between 1994 and 2024. Most studies included mixed-gender samples with limited gender-specific analysis. Themes of barriers emerged across studies, including seizure-related barriers, medication-related challenges, social factors, systemic factors, and environmental barriers. Facilitators included psychological facilitators, social support, adaptive equipment/strategies, environment, seizure-related factors, and medication. CONCLUSION: Multiple interacting factors influence physical activity participation among females with epilepsy. Findings highlight the importance of education, supportive environments, and individualised programs. The limited and heterogeneous evidence base underscores the need for further research to inform gender-specific strategies addressing the unique needs of females with epilepsy to participate in physical activity.