Can a 28-year-old woman with epilepsy get pregnant?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 28 years old and have had epilepsy since I was a teen. My seizures are mostly under control, but I am thinking about starting a family. I am worried about how my medication might affect a baby, and if seizures can get worse during pregnancy.

How do women with epilepsy manage this safely?
Are there safer drugs or plans to reduce risk for both mom and baby?

Please suggest.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

It is great that you are thinking ahead and taking steps to plan for a safe pregnancy. Many women with epilepsy have healthy pregnancies and children, but it does require careful coordination with your neurologist and obstetrician. Some anti-seizure medications can increase the risk of birth defects, especially if taken during the first trimester. Still, the risk can often be minimized by using the lowest effective dose of the safest possible medication. For example, Lamotrigine and Levetiracetam are generally considered safer options during pregnancy.

It is also essential to start taking Folic acid (usually at a higher dose than standard prenatal recommendations) before conception, as it helps to reduce the risk of neural tube defects. Pregnancy can sometimes change how your body processes medication, so frequent monitoring and dose adjustments might be needed.

Seizure control is very important because uncontrolled seizures can pose serious risks to both mother and baby, especially tonic-clonic seizures. With a well-managed care plan, most women with epilepsy go through pregnancy safely. Do not hesitate to reach out to me to build a personalized plan.

I hope this answers your query.

Let me know if I need to assist you further.

Thank you.