Contraception | Pregnancy

Contraception

  • If you are considering taking, or you are already taking, oral contraception you should discuss this with your doctor, as some anti-epileptic medications interfere with the metabolism of the oral contraceptive pill making it less effective. This can lead to “pill failure” and possibly pregnancy. 

Pregnancy

  • When the time is right for you to have a baby, it is important to plan your pregnancy, with the help of your General Practitioner, Obstetrician and your General Paediatrician / Neurologist. 
  • Some medications can affect the baby inside the womb. It is important as you plan a pregnancy to discuss all anticonvulsant medication with your doctor well before you actually become pregnant. 
  • Your doctors can adjust your medications if needed to help minimise the risks to you and your baby.
  • Sodium valproate in particular has been associated with significant concerns of teratogenicity (e.g. malformations, cognitive impairment, and Autistic Spectrum Disorder in the baby). This is particularly true at higher dosages. The risk of teratogenicity increases with increasing dosage. It is important clinicians and women of childbearing age are aware of this risk. Ideally, pregnancies in women with epilepsy should be planned and managed by a neurologist. Medication choices should be selected and discussed, keeping in mind the safety of mother and foetus.
  • Folate supplementation preconception is recommended for all women planning a pregnancy.
  • If you find you are pregnant unexpectedly, it is very important you do not stop your anti-epileptic medication. You should make an appointment to see your General Paediatrician / Neurologist and Doctors caring for you as soon as possible.  
  • The risks to your baby from uncontrolled seizures are far higher than any risks associated with your medicines.


For detailed information please see:

 

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Information last reviewed: 1/11/2022.