Epilepsy and pregnancy

I want to know if I can get pregnant while taking drugs to treat Epilepsy

Ife (by SMS)

Epilepsy is defined by the presence of recurrent, unprovoked seizures. The typical treatment is a daily, long-term antiepileptic drug (AED) regimen. People with epilepsy expect to participate fully in life experiences, including childbearing, as the majority of them have well-controlled seizures, and are otherwise healthy.

In utero exposure to some AEDs is associated with an increased risk of major congenital malformations (MCMs), possible obstetrical complications, possible neonatal complications, impaired behavioral development, and impaired cognitive development in the child. These risks must be weighed against the risk of recurrent seizures in the mother and the complications that could come as a result of changing or stopping AED treatment.

Fortunately, there are newer AEDs that can be safely used during pregnancy after adequate consultation with the attending Obstetrician.

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