Management of women with epilepsy. Practical issues faced when dealing with women with epilepsy

Abstract

Epilepsy is commonly encountered in neurology practice, affecting more than 50 million people worldwide, according to the World Health Organization reports. Management of women with epilepsy requires attention to some considerations including the hormonal changes and its impact on epilepsy, the interaction between oral contraceptives and antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), pregnancy, and the potential teratogenic risk associated with AEDs use during that period. Similarly, the effect of AEDs on bone health should always be considered, and measures should be taken to reduce the risk of osteoporosis given the fact that women in their menopause are at increased risk. Despite the considerable risk of teratogenicity with AEDs use in pregnancy, more than 90% of pregnancies will be uneventful.