Women, Pregnancy, and Epilepsy
Women, Pregnancy, and Epilepsy
What happens if you do have a seizure during labor? Your doctor may give you IV medication to stop the seizure. If that doesn't work, you may have to have a caesarean section. Although most women with epilepsy have normal vaginal deliveries, they do have a higher rate of C-sections than other women. Sometimes, anticonvulsant drugs can also reduce the ability of the muscles of your uterus to contract. If this happens, your labor might not progress as well and a C-section may be your best option.
All of these concerns can seem overwhelming, but there's no need to become overly anxious. It's important to be aware of the risks. But it's also important to keep in mind that the vast majority of women with epilepsy get through pregnancy just fine. Your chances of having a healthy child are excellent, especially if you talk with your doctor early and often, follow the advice you are given, and take good care of yourself.
In this article
- Getting Pregnant With Epilepsy
- Epilepsy Drugs Safe for Pregnancy
- Prepare in Advance for Pregnancy With Epilepsy
- Epilepsy and Labor
Epilepsy and Labor continued...
What happens if you do have a seizure during labor? Your doctor may give you IV medication to stop the seizure. If that doesn't work, you may have to have a caesarean section. Although most women with epilepsy have normal vaginal deliveries, they do have a higher rate of C-sections than other women. Sometimes, anticonvulsant drugs can also reduce the ability of the muscles of your uterus to contract. If this happens, your labor might not progress as well and a C-section may be your best option.
All of these concerns can seem overwhelming, but there's no need to become overly anxious. It's important to be aware of the risks. But it's also important to keep in mind that the vast majority of women with epilepsy get through pregnancy just fine. Your chances of having a healthy child are excellent, especially if you talk with your doctor early and often, follow the advice you are given, and take good care of yourself.
