Epilepsy in Pregnancy

Epilepsy in Pregnancy: Understanding and Management

Epilepsy of pregnancy, also known as epilepsy gravidarum, is a condition in which pregnant women suffer from epileptic seizures. This disease poses special challenges for expectant mothers as they worry about their health and the health of their unborn child. In this article, we will review the main aspects of epilepsy in pregnancy, including the causes, diagnosis and treatment of the condition, and the impact on fetal development.

The causes of epilepsy in pregnancy can be varied. Some women have already been diagnosed with epilepsy before pregnancy, while others experience seizures for the first time during gestation. Hormonal changes in a pregnant woman's body can affect neuronal activity and trigger seizures. In addition, uncontrolled use of antiepileptic drugs before conception or during pregnancy may also be a risk factor.

Diagnosis of epilepsy in pregnancy involves collecting medical and history information, as well as performing an electroencephalography (EEG) to detect electrical activity in the brain. Additional tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT), may also be needed to determine possible causes of epilepsy and rule out other medical conditions.

Treating epilepsy in pregnancy is challenging because it requires finding a balance between controlling seizures and minimizing risks to fetal development. Some women may need to change the dosage or regimen of their antiepileptic medications to achieve effective seizure control with minimal impact on the baby's development. It is important that pregnant women receive regular medical supervision and consultation with specialists to assess the effectiveness of treatment and address issues related to the safety of the use of antiepileptic drugs during pregnancy.

However, not all antiepileptic drugs are safe for use during pregnancy. Some of them may be related