How to manage seizures during childbearing age?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 33-year-old woman who had her first seizure a month ago. It happened right before my period, which makes me wonder that hormones can cause seizures. My EEG was abnormal, and I have just started medication, but I am scared. What does this mean for my future, especially if I want to get pregnant someday? I have also heard about catamenial epilepsy. Is that real? Can you explain what triggers I should watch for, and how seizure disorders are managed in women, particularly those of childbearing age? I am feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to adjust my life.

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Your fear of having a seizure and the link with getting pregnant is understandable. Catamenial seizure is real, and it can be triggered by the menstrual cycle. To identify this, you have to keep a record or a diary of your seizure activity and your triggers. Other triggers for seizures can be stress, sleep deprivation, and some antibiotics and antidepressants. Some anti-seizure medications are contraindicated in pregnancy. When you want to conceive, we will have to review your seizure medications. Also, we have to regularly monitor levels of anti-seizure medications during pregnancy.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.