Pregnancy with epilepsy requires appropriate management to achieve good clinical outcomes for baby and mother

Jaipur, March 30 2022: Epilepsy is one of the most common conditions affecting the central nervous system and causes people to have repeated seizures. It affects 1-3 per cent of the people regardless of their gender, age and race. The causes of epilepsy can be traced to numerous factors such as genetic influence, brain infections, trauma and development disorders. On the occasion of Epilepsy Awareness Day also known as Purple Day (March 26), Dr. Neetu Ramrakhiani, Director, Neurology at Fortis Escorts Hospital Jaipur, sheds light on epilepsy management during pregnancy, related complications it may have on the mother and the baby and treatment options

Dr. Neetu shares, “Pregnancy with epilepsy is a critical medical condition which requires appropriate management to achieve safe clinical outcomes for baby and the mother. In earlier days, women suffering from epilepsy were asked to avoid pregnancy but with improved technology and established medical outcomes, in today’s day - 9 out of 10 women are treated well and have successful deliveries if managed appropriately.”

 She further explains that “Taking medications in certain conditions can lead to side-effects in the child and mother. Taking anti-epileptic medications during pregnancy can lead to child birth defects such as congenital malformation and neuro-developmental disorder. Complications to the mother may include caesarean delivery, pre-term birth and raised blood pressure. The first 12 weeks (about 3 months) of pregnancy are most critical for the development of the baby.”

To avoid such complications, Dr. Neetu suggests that pregnancy must be planned for women suffering from epilepsy. She further states “Planning of pregnancy is best done prior to getting pregnant so that the neurologist/physician reviews your medication to control the disease and see that the baby is protected against the potential harmful effects of anti-epileptic medication. Certain medications such as high dose sodium valproate may be associated with low intelligence and birth defects.

She adds, “Patient X (Name Changed) suffered from epilepsy, obesity, and poly cystic ovarian disease. She was on sodium valproate and her fetus was found to have neural tube defects. During subsequent pregnancy with change to alternative medication and addition of folic acid, a good pregnancy outcome could be achieved.”

Dr.Neetu further reveals that there is a tendency among women to stop their medications once they conceive without consulting their physicians. Recurrent seizures can lead to increased risk of seizures and fall which may harm the fetus. If you are having recurrent vomiting during early pregnancy a repeat dose of medication may be suggested with the addition of anti-nausea medication, good sleep is particularly important both during pregnancy and after child birth to prevent seizure re-occurrence. Most women can breastfeed their children after birth without any complications.”

About Fortis Healthcare Limited

Fortis Healthcare Limited – an IHH Healthcare Berhad Company – is a leading integrated healthcare services provider in India. It is one of the largest healthcare organizations in the country with 27 healthcare facilities (including projects under development), 4100 operational beds and over 419 diagnostics centres (including JVs). Fortis is present in India, United Arab Emirates (UAE) & Sri Lanka. The Company is listed on the BSE Ltd and National Stock Exchange (NSE) of India. It draws strength from its partnership with global major and parent company, IHH, to build upon its culture of world-class patient care and superlative clinical excellence. Fortis employs 23,000 people (including SRL) who share its vision of becoming the world’s most trusted healthcare network. Fortis offers a full spectrum of integrated healthcare services ranging from clinics to quaternary care facilities and a wide range of ancillary services.