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In this era of facebook, twitter and youtube, epilepsy is still a grossly stigmatized disorder! And of course there is always typical gender-related issues. Frustrating isn't it? Do you believe the idea that "everything happens for a reason" ? Don't. Try to find the purpose of your life. Your simple smile may enlighten others. Confucius was so right,
"It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop."
Epilepsy and infertility
Some women with epilepsy may have menstrual irregularities. Sometimes there may be associated gynecological problem as well, like polycystic ovarian syndrome. This disorder is a known factor for infertility.
Women taking medication for epilepsy might also suffer due to direct effect of drugs on conception.
Always consult your doctor when you are taking anti epileptic medications with oral contraceptive pills. Some of them (phenytoin, carbamazepine) may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal birth control pills.
Common complaints of epileptic mother in pregnancy
Women with epilepsy often have to face increased pregnancy related symptoms and complications, like:
Severe morning sickness
Anemia
High blood pressure
Vaginal bleeding during and after pregnancy
Premature separation of the placenta (placental abruption)
Excess protein in the urine after 20 weeks of pregnancy (preeclampsia)
A low birth weight baby
Premature birth
Babies with congenital anomalies
State of epilepsy in pregnancy
In most cases seizures remain the same during pregnancy. But women who have poorly controlled epilepsy, pregnancy may increase the number of seizures.
Chances of suffering from epilepsy of your child
It is seen that babies born to mothers who have epilepsy also have a slightly higher risk of developing seizures. It is usually more evident as they get older
Simple measures to take to prepare for pregnancy
Consult your health care provider (preferably the doctor who will be handling your pregnancy till the delivery) before you try to conceive. Your family doctor and neurologist are also part of the team to evaluate you throughout the pregnancy. Together, they will decide upon managing your epilepsy. They will make necessary changes in the medications before pregnancy begins. Don't fool yourself by taking medications as you like. Drugs may be of no use if you take them randomly.
There is no alternative to healthy lifestyle choices. You should
Eat a healthy diet regularly.
Take prenatal vitamins especially folic acid.
Keep away from any stress. I know it's tough. We love stresses! But try your best to avoid it. At least during pregnancy.
Get adequate sleep.
Avoid smoking, alcohol, illicit drugs or any sort of chemicals.
Things to know about folic acid supplement
Anti epileptic drugs are likely to be associated with neural tube defect (abnormality of brain and spinal coed) of your baby which is really a devastating condition. To prevent this, folic acid is often advised ideally three months before conception. The recommended dose is 5 mg/day.
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