Pregnancy and Epilepsy
Proper seizure control is the primary goal in treating patients with epilepsy. This is even more important in women with epilepsy who wish to become pregnant. These women should understand the risks associated with uncontrolled seizures as well as the teratogenicity of anticonvulsant medication. If anticonvulsants cannot be avoided, the most appropriate first-line drug for the seizure type should be used at the lowest effective dosage. With proper preconceptional, antenatal and postpartum management the majority of pregnancies in women with epilepsy have favourable outcomes.