WOMENS ISSUES IN EPILEPSY - MENSES, CHILDBEARING, AND MORE

A variety of special issues arise in caring for women with epilepsy. S eizures related to the menstrual cycle (catamenial epilepsy) can be co ntrolled by several treatment strategies. Oral contraceptives are not contraindicated, but higher-dose agents are needed if enzyme-inducing antiepileptic medications are given concomitantly. Sexual and reproduc tive dysfunctions are common but often go unrecognized. In the past, m any people with epilepsy were wrongly advised against reproduction. Wi th appropriate management, most women with epilepsy deliver healthy ch ildren. A better understanding of these concerns will allow physicians to improve the lives of women with epilepsy.