Women’s Epilepsy Clinic

Overview

Can having epilepsy make it harder to get pregnant? Is it safe to continue antiseizure
medications throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding? Does being pregnant have an
effect on seizure activity?

It’s normal to have a lot of questions when you’re planning a pregnancy, especially if
you live with epilepsy. First and foremost, it’s important to know that the vast majority of
pregnant women with epilepsy give birth to healthy babies. Working with an experienced
epileptologist helps to ensure you receive the prenatal care that’s right for you.
That’s why we formed the Women’s Epilepsy Clinic at the Barrow Epilepsy Center.
Whether you need adjustments to your medications or simply answers to your questions,
we’re here to guide you through your pregnancy journey—from preconception through
postpartum.

Even women who are not planning pregnancies may have unique needs when it comes
to managing their epilepsy. Our providers in the Women’s Epilepsy Clinic are also
experienced in treating catamenial epilepsy, a subtype of epilepsy in which hormonal
fluctuations during the menstrual cycle influence seizure activity.

The Women’s Epilepsy Clinic at the Barrow Epilepsy Center is unique in its focus, as few clinics are dedicated to the relationship between epilepsy and women’s health. Patients in our clinic can expect to work with a collaborative team of specialists, who are equipped with the resources of a leading epilepsy facility. In fact, the Barrow Epilepsy Center is accredited as a Level 4 Comprehensive Epilepsy Center by the National Association of Epilepsy Centers, the highest level of care defined by the organization.