Epilepsy and Pregnancy

Abstract

Currently, there are approximately 15 million women of childbearing age worldwide. A total of 0.3–0.4% of newborns are born to mothers with epilepsy, with nearly half a percent of these women experiencing ongoing seizures. This chapter addresses issues related to pregnancy preparation, the prognostic influence of seizure frequency, epilepsy type, and course on pregnancy outcomes, as well as potential risks associated with the condition for both the mother and the fetus. Summary data on latest recommendations for therapy adjustments and data on the pharmacokinetic changes of antiepileptic drugs during pregnancy are provided. The classification of antiepileptic drugs based on their teratogenic potential and their impact on child development and behavior is presented. Various approaches to managing pregnancy are discussed. Scenarios for managing pregnancy in cases of poorly controlled epilepsy and status epilepticus, as well as therapy adjustments in the postpartum period and measures for the safe care of newborns, are also considered.