Women With Epilepsy
Do women experience epilepsy differently?
Women have a variety of different experiences resulting from epilepsy. Here you will find articles and information related directly to women and epilepsy, as well as forums to help you connect to other women sharing your experiences.
What do I do if I have epilepsy and I'm pregnant?
If you are a woman with epilepsy and are pregnant, or are thinking about becoming pregnant, please register by clicking here with the AED Pregnancy Registry.
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The AED Pregnancy Registry is run by Massachusetts General Hospital. They conduct an ongoing study of the antiepileptic drugs (AED’s) that women take during pregnancy. The more information they can gather, the better they can determine what medications work best for a healthy
What is Catamenial Epilepsy?
Catamenial epilepsy is a type of epilepsy women have dealt with for centuries. With catamenial epilepsy, seizures spike or increase during the time right before a monthly period, or during specific times in a woman’s monthly cycle. This is based on the fluctuation in women’s hormones before, during and after their period.
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Keep a record of your monthly menstrual cycle, along with your seizures and share it with your neurologist at your next appointment. They may be able to guide you to helpful ways to manage seizures related to menstruation.
Empowering Epilepsy Support Groups with Yoga
Empowering Epilepsy Support Groups are run monthly to help people live well with epilepsy. From 7:00 – 7:45, meet other people who understand epilepsy. Learn strategies to manage seizures and make new friends. Then from 7:45 to 8:45 enjoy Empowering Epilepsy Yoga. Learn Pranayama breathing techniques to help reduce stress and minimize seizures. Food and drink will be provided, and the event is FREE.
Can I have children?
Women with epilepsy can have children.
Make sure to talk to both your OBGYN and your neurologist about your family planning.
High risk pregnancy
Women with epilepsy who are pregnant are automatically considered a high risk pregnancy.
Taking Folic Acid is an important part of preventing birth defects.
Catamenial Epilepsy
Catamenial Epilepsy is a gender specific epilepsy in women whose seizures increase at certain times during their menstrual cycle.