Epilepsy and Pregnancy
Experts agree that epilepsy shouldn't prevent women from having children, as 90% of sufferers give birth to healthy babies. Despite these findings, women remain concerned, fearing the effects of their medication on their unborn child. It is therefore advised that women consult their neurologists and gynaecologists before conceiving so that the pregnancy can be carefully planned and closely monitored.
What are the chances of my seizures increasing during pregnancy?
Approximately one third of women experience an increase in seizures whilst pregnant, although surveys have shown, factors other than those relating to pregnancy are the cause of this increase. Hormonal changes may also be to blame, as this may affect the proper absorption of anti-epileptic medication. Consult your doctor on a regular basis, as a change in dosage may be all that is needed.Will the seizure harm my unborn baby?
There is a possibility, especially in the case of Grand mal seizures which can cause a drop in the fetal heart rate. The cause of this is unknown, although it is thought to be a result of the blood supply being reduced during a seizure, or the mother not breathing correctly. These seizures do not appear to cause birth defects, however, women are still strongly advised to try and minimize the fits, as an intense seizure could result in miscarriage.Will the prescribed medication cause my baby to be handicapped or damaged in any way?
90% of babies born to epileptic mothers are healthy, despite the fact that they run twice the risk of having some malformation than other babies. Taking a single drug, opposed to a combination of drugs, seems to be the safest method in preventing birth defects, of which the most common in this case are: cleft/lip palate, spina bifida, heart defects and central nervous problems. Because of the danger posed on the unborn baby, doctors strongly suggest that the women be 'weaned' off the medication before falling pregnant - this only being possible for those who have not suffered a seizure for a few years.I really want to breastfeed, will the medication affect my breast milk?
Recent studies have shown, that eventhough traces of the medication can be found in the breast milk, it will do little in the way of harm, as it is present in such small quantities. Women taking high-dosage medication on the other hand, will need to consult their specialists before deciding to breastfeed.
