Can you have a safe pregnancy with epilepsy?

Fortunately, most women with epilepsy give birth to normal, healthy babies. If you take precautions, your chance of having a healthy child is greater than 90%. There are increased risks. But working closely with your doctor can help minimize those risks.

Does having epilepsy affect pregnancy?

Seizures during pregnancy can cause: Slowing of the fetal heart rate. Decreased oxygen to the fetus. Fetal injury, premature separation of the placenta from the uterus (placental abruption) or miscarriage due to trauma, such as a fall, during a seizure.

Is epilepsy considered high risk pregnancy?

In women with epilepsy, the risk is doubled to about 4% to 6%, but overall remains low. Risks to the developing baby may be greater when more than one type of medication is used and with a higher dose of medication.

Do antiepileptics cause birth defects?

However, previous studies consistently have found that babies born to women who take certain antiepileptic medications during pregnancy have an increased risk for birth defects. Studies have shown that valproic acid presents the most risk to the developing baby.

How do you manage epilepsy during pregnancy?

In order to prevent convulsions during labour, proper seizure control should be achieved during the third trimester. Benzodiazepines or phenytoin are found to be effective for seizure cessation during labour and delivery. Phytomenadione should be administered immediately after birth to the newborn.

Which epilepsy drugs are safest in pregnancy?

A review of the risks of major congenital malformations and of adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes for antiepileptic drugs by the Commission on Human Medicines has confirmed that lamotrigine (Lamictal) and levetiracetam (Keppra) are the safer of the medicines reviewed during pregnancy.

Does seizure medication affect pregnancy?

The risk to the developing baby from seizure medications taken during pregnancy is primarily that of congenital malformation or birth defects. In the general population, there is a 2% to 3% occurrence of congenital malformations that cannot always be predicted or prevented.

Is EEG safe during pregnancy?

EEG’s are safe and painless. They are even safe in pregnancy. At times, seizures may be evoked, but can easily be treated by the doctor.

Can epileptic patient give birth to healthy child?

Well, it’s time for the truth: Even though epilepsy can make pregnancy a bit more complicated, most women with epilepsy have safe pregnancies and healthy babies. Here are some common myths and facts about epilepsy and pregnancy.

Which antiepileptics are safe in pregnancy?

What is the safest antiepileptic in pregnancy?

Is EEG safe in pregnancy?