Adolescent women go through a tough time, especially when epilepsy is added to their list of concerns. There are some extra concerns for young women with epilepsy.

When the menstrual cycle for adolescent women starts, seizure activity may change or stay the same. For some women, there are no ties between menstruating and having seizures. In the case of catamenial epilepsy however, there are strong connections. Here, seizures may occur more frequently, right before, during, closely after, or between cycles of ovulation.

Dealing with epilepsy as well as all the other physical, emotional and social changes — the process of self acceptance — may not always be easy, but this is all part of becoming an adult.


Pregnancy

Pregnancy is of special concern for women with epilepsy. For more than 90% of babies born to women with epilepsy, inherited epilepsy is not an issue. There is, however, a slightly increased chance of birth defects. A woman in the general population has a 2-3% risk of giving birth to a baby with a birth abnormality; for those with epilepsy, the risk is 4-6%.

Taking antiepileptic drugs can also add to the health risks for infants. Although the effects of AEDs are of concern, you should never just stop taking your medication. Doing so could mean major and frequent seizures that can bring serious danger to both you and your child. These risks may be reduced by taking prenatal vitamins, including folic acid.

Understand all of the risks and possible preventions before becoming pregnant. Your doctor should be knowledgeable of your current status. S/he may need to change your AED dosage in order to match your body's medication metabolism. If you are pregnant, ask your neurologist about finding a medical treatment plan that is right for both you and your child.

Antiepileptic drugs which produce enzymes may lead to a decrease in the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Consult your doctor before taking any contraceptive pills.