What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, which are sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain. For women and individuals with childbearing potential, epilepsy presents unique challenges due to hormonal fluctuations and their impact on seizure activity. These challenges shift throughout life, requiring personalized care plans that address the specific needs of adolescence, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause.
Types of Epilepsy in Women
While epilepsy can affect anyone, certain types or patterns of epilepsy can be more prevalent in women. At our WMCHealth Clinic for Women with Epilepsy, we specialize in addressing these specific types and creating treatment plans to meet the individual needs of our patients.
Catamenial Epilepsy
This type of epilepsy involves seizures that are linked to the menstrual cycle. Hormonal fluctuations during menstruation or ovulation can trigger seizures in some women, making epilepsy management more complex. Our team can help you track your cycle, pinpoint patterns and adjust treatment to minimize seizures during these hormonal changes.
Pregnancy and Epilepsy
The hormonal shifts and metabolic changes that come with pregnancy can impact seizure frequency and medication effectiveness. Our clinic provides comprehensive care for women with epilepsy who are planning to become pregnant or are currently pregnant. We work closely with maternal-fetal medicine specialists to ensure the safety of both mother and baby, optimizing seizure control, folic acid supplementation and medication management throughout pregnancy.
Epilepsy and Menopause
As women enter menopause, hormonal changes can again influence seizure patterns and medication needs. Additionally, women with epilepsy may be at a higher risk for osteoporosis. The WMCHealth clinic offers specialized care during this transitional period, addressing any seizure-related concerns and providing guidance on bone health management.
Genetic Epilepsies
Certain genetic forms of epilepsy, such as Rett syndrome and Aicardi syndrome, occur almost exclusively in females. These specific conditions present unique challenges, and our team at WMCHealth will consider the intricate details of your genetic epilepsy to develop a personalized management plan that aligns with your individual needs and lifestyle.
Symptoms of Epilepsy in Women
Epilepsy symptoms in women can vary and may be influenced by hormonal shifts. Symptoms include:
- Mood changes such as irritability, anxiety or depression, especially around menstruation
- Feeling tired or lacking energy
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering or paying attention
- Insomnia or excessive daytime sleepiness
Diagnosis of Epilepsy in Women
Diagnosing epilepsy typically involves a comprehensive evaluation. At the Clinic for Women with Epilepsy, we may conduct some or all of the following:
- Detailed medical history
- Neurological examination
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) to record brain activity
- Brain imaging scans (MRI or CT) to rule out other conditions
Treatment for Epilepsy in Women
Medication Management
Anti-seizure medications are tailored to each woman’s needs, considering factors such as potential pregnancy, menstrual cycle and life stage.
Pregnancy Planning
For women considering pregnancy, treatment involves managing seizure control and adjusting medications to ensure safety for both mother and baby.
Why Choose WMCHealth for Epilepsy Treatment
WMCHealth offers specialized care for women with epilepsy through our dedicated clinic. Our approach includes:
- Comprehensive care to address women’s specific needs throughout different life stages
- Close collaboration with maternal-fetal medicine specialists for high-risk pregnancies
- Counseling and access to relevant resources in the clinic, hospital and community
- Individualized treatment plans for pregnancy, labor, delivery, breastfeeding and postpartum care
- Management of epilepsy-related women’s health issues from adolescence through menopause