Women and epilepsy

Taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may increase the risk of seizures for some women with epilepsy.

Epilepsy and taking anti-epileptic drugs may contribute to the risk of developing osteoporosis for some people.

Changes in hormone levels means that epilepsy treatment may need to change through a woman’s life. In this section, when we refer to women, this also includes girls of childbearing age.

Some methods of contraception may be less effective in preventing pregnancy for women taking certain anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs). This is because some AEDs (enzyme-inducing AEDs) affect how well methods of contraception work. Non-enzyme-inducing AEDs are unlikely to affect contraception.

The latest news around the Anti-Epileptic Drug Sodium valproate.

Information about the risk of seizures and pain relief available for women with epilepsy during childbirth.

International Women's Day, celebrating women's achievements around the world.

Mel talks about her experience from being first diagnosed with epilepsy, to becoming pregnant and seeking treatment and support from Epilepsy Society at our Sir William Gowers medical centre.

Emma Friedmann is a parent carer of her 19 year old son who has fetal valproate syndrome. On the 21st February 2018, she attended parliament when the government announced their decision to review handling of concerns around sodium valproate.