Is safe pregnancy and delivery possible for women with epilepsy?

Published On - August 8, 2023

Pregnancy is a joyous and transformative journey for women but it can bring additional considerations and concerns for those living with certain medical problems like epilepsy. Epilepsy is a neurological condition marked by recurrent seizures. Women with epilepsy may wonder whether it is possible to have a safe pregnancy and delivery. In this blog, one of the best infertility specialists in Kolkata will shed light on this. Let’s know.

Is it possible to conceive with epilepsy?

Safe pregnancy is possible for many women with epilepsy. With proper medical care, monitoring and guidance from infertility specialists and neurologists jointly , women with epilepsy can have successful pregnancies and deliveries. However, each case is unique and the safety of pregnancy may depend on various factors such as the type and severity of epilepsy.

Pregnancy with epilepsy can carry certain risk factors for both the mother and the baby. Some of the key risk factors, as said by an expert at the best infertility clinic in Kolkata, include the following.

Congenital Deformities: some older antiepileptic medicines are known to cause congenital deformity in fetus like congenital heart defects , facial clefts and spina bifida. These problems are less common with newer antiepileptic drugs.

Low Birth Weight: Insufficient oxygen and nutrients reaching the fetus during a seizure can result in lower birth weight for the baby.

Decreased Oxygen to the Fetus: Seizures can disrupt normal blood flow to the placenta, resulting in reduced oxygen supply to the fetus.

Preterm Labour: Severe seizures may trigger premature contractions and preterm labour, leading to early delivery.

Trauma to the Mother: Seizures can cause loss of consciousness and uncontrolled movements, leading to the risk of physical injuries for the mother, such as falls or other accidents.

Placental Abruption: In some cases, a severe seizure cause premature separation of the placenta from the uterus, which is known as placental abruption. This condition can be life-threatening for both the mother and the baby.

What to do for a successful pregnancy and safe delivery?

Managing pregnancy under a specialist fertility center usually gives good result. Pre-pregnancy planning and work up certainly helps . Getting the seizures in absolute control by use of one or more safe medicines before conception is vital . Pre-pregnancy folic acid plays an important role.

Getting the baby checked through ultrasonography by Fetal Medicine Specialists for it’s normality ( Anomaly Scan ) is must. Monitoring baby’s growth by ultrasonography is also very important.

Conclusion

Many women with epilepsy can have safe pregnancies and deliveries. Each case is unique and personalized care plans can help address individual needs and concerns to promote the best possible outcomes for both the mother and the baby.

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