Epilepsy and Pregnancy

So many women face obstacles during pregnancy that many people don't even realize. These obstacles can pose concerns and risks for both mom and baby.

For me, it is epilepsy.

I don't have the falling down-passing out-body jerking Grand Mal activity that most people associate with seizure activity. No, my seizures are much more subtle in nature but are dangerous nonetheless.

I am plagued with complex partial seizures and due to the wide range of seizure activity "symptoms" I have, it took years to finally get a diagnosis.

The biggest threat I face during this pregnancy is of course damage from the seizures themselves. My complex partial seizures often lead to loss of consciousness which put me at risk for dangerous falls especially. I do get a bit of an "aura" prior to the event, which so far has given me just enough time to sit down, sometimes on the floor when I am in places where seating is unavailable.

Medications also pose risk to the developing fetus. I currently take Lamotrigine (Lamictal) and am closely monitored by both my neurogist and Maternal Fetal Medicine (MFM) doctors.

Lamotrigine is considered a Class C drug and usually the benefits of taking it outweigh the risks. The greatest risks to the developing baby when the mother takes Lamotrigine during pregnancy are cleft lip and cleft palate.

According to my neurologist, Lamotrigine is considered one of the safest seizure control medications available to take during pregnancy. I'm grateful I've had luck responding to it favorably and have not needed to switch to a more pregnancy risky medication.

I am currently 19w3d along and had my anatomy scan last week. We were all relieved to see that baby looks awesome developmentally with no indication of any noticeable birth defects.

Being pregnant while epileptic can be scary so making sure we don't miss appointments or medications is crucial. I'm blessed to have such amazing doctors looking out for me!