Pregnancy

Women who have epilepsy have special concerns when they decide to have a baby. They wonder if epilepsy or antiepileptic medications can affect their pregnancy or their unborn child. These concerns are important ones and are also shared by the medical profession.

To address these issues, the Epilepsy Foundation has developed Epilepsy & Pregnancy, a comprehensive pamphlet which answers common questions women with epilepsy ask. Studies that are being conducted in the area of epilepsy and pregnancy have helped to establish some guidelines for women with epilepsy. Many questions remain unanswered, however, and this is why continued research is so important.

Generally speaking, having epilepsy should not prevent a woman from planning a family. At least 90 percent of the babies born to women with epilepsy are normal and healthy. This percentage might be even higher if the pregnancy is planned in advance with the consultation of a neurologist and then accompanied by early and ongoing prenatal care.

Once you have read the pamphlet, be sure to discuss any remaining questions with your physician or nurse practitioner.

In order to receive a free copy of the pamphlet, please send us your name and address.

12 Recommendations from the Pamphlet

1. Plan your pregnancy.
2. Make an appointment with your obstetrician when you first suspect you are pregnant.
3. Take your antiepileptic medication(s) as prescribed.
4. To the best of your ability, reduce any factors in your life which usually make a seizure more likely to occur.
5. Promptly report all seizures to your neurologist.
6. Get adequate amounts of rest and sleep.
7. Maintain balanced nutrition and proper weight gain.
8. Before you become pregnant, begin taking folic acid (0.4 mg. per day). Take prenatal vitamins with folic acid regularly throughout your pregnancy. Ask your physician to prescribe Vitamin K1 (Mephyton tablets) during the last few weeks of your pregnancy.
9. Do not smoke.
10. Avoid consuming any beverages that contain alcohol or caffeine.
11. Do not take any drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, and speed. Avoid environmental chemicals like paint, pesticides, and oven cleaners.
12. Do not take any prescription or non-prescription (over-the-counter) medication unless it is approved by your physician.