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An Information Pamphlet for Women with Epilepsy
This pamphlet used with permission by the authors: Mark S. Yerby, M.D., M.P.H. and Susan Lannon , R.N., B.S., Robert Mittendorf, M.D., Patricia Collins M.D., Ph.D.
Women who have epilepsy have special concerns when they decide to have a baby. They wonder if epilepsy or antiepileptic medication can affect their pregnancy or their unborn child. These concerns are important ones and are also shared by the medical profession.
Studies which are being conducted in the area of pregnancy and epilepsy have helped to establish some guidelines for women with epilepsy. Many questions remain unanswered, however, and this is why continued research is so important.
Generally speaking, having epilepsy should not prevent a woman from planning a family. At least 90 percent of the babies born to women with epilepsy are normal and healthy. This percentage might be even higher if the pregnancy is planned in advance with the consultation of a neurologist, and then accompanied by early and ongoing prenatal care.
This pamphlet was designed to answer some of the more common questions that woman with epilepsy ask. After reading the pamphlet, be sure to discuss any remaining questions with your physician or nurse practitioner.
© 1996 Mark S. Yerby M.D., M.P.H.
North Pacific Epilepsy Research
Mother Joseph Plaza
9427 SW Barnes Road - Suite 595
Phone: 503-291-5300
Fax: 503-291-5303
Susan Lannon, R.N., B.S.
University of North Carolina
Department of Neurology
Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7025
919-966-5547
Robert Mittendorf, M.D., Dr. PH
Director of Health Studies
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
University of Chicago
Chicago, Illinois 60637
Patricia L. Collins, M.D., Ph.D.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
MetroHealth Medical Center
2500 MetroHealth Drive
Cleveland, Ohio 44109
©1996, Dr. Mark Yerby. All rights reserved. All material in this site is copywrited by Dr. Mark Yerby, North Pacific Epilepsy Research, and/or others. The information herein is to be used solely for the purposes of improving the treatment of epilepsy. Feel free to download this information and share with others. All unauthorized reproduction of these materials for commercial purposes or personal gain is strictly prohibited.