The body changes, so does its treatment: how epilepsy accompanies women over the years

Learn how hormonal cycles influence epileptic seizures and how to adjust your treatment to improve your quality of life

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects millions of people worldwide, but when it comes to women’s health, there are specific factors that require special attention. Hormonal changes, contraceptive methods, pregnancy, and menopause can influence the control of epileptic seizures and may require adjustments to treatment over the years.

From adolescence to reproductive age

During adolescence, hormonal changes can affect the frequency and severity of epileptic seizures. In addition, studies indicate that adolescents with epilepsy have higher rates of unplanned pregnancy, making medical counseling essential to ensure the safety and autonomy of these young women.

As a woman becomes sexually active, a new issue arises: choosing a contraceptive method. Some antiepileptic medications can reduce the effectiveness of combined hormonal contraceptives, which makes methods such as the intrauterine device (IUD) a more reliable alternative, depending on the individual case. A neurologist and a gynecologist should be consulted to determine the best option for each woman.

Another important point is the catamenial epilepsy, a condition in which seizures increase before and during menstruation, affecting about 40% of women. Recording episodes in a diary can help identify patterns and allow for adjustments to treatment.

Epilepsy During Pregnancy

If you have epilepsy and want to become pregnant, it’s best to plan your pregnancy with medical supervision. Some medications may need to be adjusted to reduce risks to the baby. In addition, the use of folic acid It is highly recommended for women of childbearing age who are undergoing ongoing treatment for epilepsy.

During pregnancy, hormonal and weight changes may require adjustments to medication dosages. Breastfeeding is encouraged, but should be monitored by a neurologist to ensure safety for both the mother and the baby.

Menopause and the climacteric

Over the years, the focus of epilepsy treatment changes. During menopause, attention turns to the long-term effects of medications, including their impact on bone health and cardiovascular risks. For this reason, regular medical follow-up remains essential to ensuring quality of life during this phase.

Medical follow-up: the key to managing epilepsy

To ensure a a full and safe life, follow-up care with a neurologist is essential at every stage of a woman’s life if she has epilepsy. Here are some important points:

• Choosing the right contraceptive;
• Pregnancy planning;
• Continuous monitoring;
• Attending regular medical appointments.

With the right information and care, women with epilepsy can enjoy a high quality of life at every stage of their lives!