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Reviewed by

Dr. Kalyani Dilip Karkare

Consultant - Neurologist and Epileptologist

Manipal Hospitals, Millers Road

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Everything You Must Know About Epilepsy In Women

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Epilepsy is a neurological disorder manifested by recurrent seizures. Both men and women are affected by this disorder. However, its impact on women is more prominent and distinctive. Its symptoms are closely related to reproductive events such as changes in hormones during the menstrual cycle, the transitional phases of pregnancy, and menopause can aggravate the symptoms. Some of the top neuro specialists in Millers Road have enlisted all the reasons that trigger a seizure and the symptoms classified into different sections according to the nature and severity below:

Understanding Epilepsy in Women: From Adolescence to Old Age

Epilepsy in Adolescent Females

During adolescence, females experience hormonal changes that can trigger seizures and also face social and emotional challenges. Some girls feel embarrassed or stigmatised, which affects their self-esteem and relationships with others. Girls suffer treatment-related complications as well.

There are more chances of increased seizure activity during puberty and menarche due to the neuroactive properties of endogenous steroid hormones. They are likely to experience anovulatory cycles, variable menstrual flow, and amenorrhea. Also, any drug changes with seizure disorders, particularly antiepileptics, should be informed to obstetrician-gynaecologists. Although there has been minimal research into hormone therapy, the anticonvulsant properties of specific progestins have been reckoned as a viable therapeutic.

Epilepsy in Unmarried Women

Unmarried epileptic women have significant obstacles in their social and personal lives. They are concerned about how their future partner will respond to their epilepsy and feel less confident about themselves. Some women also face discrimination or stigma in the workplace or social circumstances. Unmarried women with epilepsy need to advocate for themselves and seek help from specialists for guidance and support.

Epilepsy in Married Women

Married women with epilepsy face similar challenges as unmarried women but also have more family and household responsibilities. They worry about the impact of their epilepsy condition on their marriage and ability to care for their children. They also face challenges related to pregnancy and childbirth. Married women with epilepsy must communicate with their partners and families about their condition and needs. They can also benefit from support groups or counselling to handle the marriage and family life challenges of epilepsy.

Epilepsy in Pregnant Women

Women with epilepsy face extraordinary hurdles when planning a pregnancy, during, and after childbirth. Planning for pregnancy is critical for women with epilepsy. Before planning, it is important to consult with a doctor and discuss changes in anti-epileptic drugs as they can affect fertility and increase the risk of congenital disabilities and potential risks to the baby. It is necessary to have a comprehensive understanding of the potential risks and benefits of medication during pregnancy, as well as an effective intervention plan for preventing epilepsy. Hormonal changes can affect seizure frequency, weight gain problems, and medication effectiveness.

Women must have regular check-ups and examinations to monitor their baby's growth and ensure the medicine they are taking to treat their epilepsy is not affecting the baby. Women may need to discontinue their medication during pregnancy in some cases due to substantial dangers such as congenital defects and cognitive impairment. Women face complexities during delivery. They also necessitate a planned C-section and need extensive monitoring during and after delivery. Women with epilepsy may need to change their medication or treatment plan after the birth of their child.

Breastfeeding is possible for epileptic mothers, but after consulting with a doctor to ensure the medicine used to treat epilepsy is safe for the newborn. Women with epilepsy should also avoid sleep deprivation to lessen seizure chances.

Epilepsy in Menopausal Women

Menopause and perimenopause are other challenging stages. During menopause and perimenopause, women experience hormonal changes that can trigger seizures. Hormone changes can cause seizures in epileptic women. Women may suffer mood swings, anxiety, and anxiety which can increase their symptoms throughout menopause and perimenopause.

Epilepsy in Post-Menopausal Women

Postmenopausal women with epilepsy have age-related health concerns such as cognitive decline and osteoporosis that affect epilepsy. At a top neurology hospital in Millers Road, treating postmenopausal necessitates a personalised plan for the women. Treatment options include antiepileptic medications, lifestyle modifications, and hormone replacement therapy.

Impact of Hormones on Epilepsy

Changes in hormones can increase the chances of having epileptic seizures. The epilepsy prevalence and seizure patterns are related to hormonal changes such as puberty, pregnancy, menopause, ageing, and more.

Hormone levels impact when epilepsy begins, how often seizures occur, and whether or not seizures stop throughout her life. The menstrual cycle can trigger seizures or affect the efficacy of medications and hormonal contraceptives can also impact seizure frequency. The cycle is regularly monitored due to its periodic changes in hormone levels, which can influence symptom intensities; hence, consultation with a specialist to find the best treatment options is prudent.

Coping with Epilepsy in Daily Life

Living with epilepsy can be challenging, but there are ways and resources available to help women cope with the condition in daily life.

The support of family, friends, and healthcare providers – epileptologists is crucial.
Following medications suggested by doctors will help you control symptoms. Your doctor may recommend epilepsy surgery if medications fail to provide adequate control over seizures. During surgery, the surgeon will remove the part of your brain that is causing seizures.
If there are side effects of medications, consult with your doctor to get alternative medications and change of doses.
Practice stress-relieving activities such as yoga or meditation on a daily basis.
Sustain a healthy lifestyle, including routine exercise and a taking balanced diet.
Seeking help from support groups can help to boost morale and confidence.

By taking an active role in epilepsy management, women with epilepsy can lead happy and productive lives. Consult with our expert at Manipal Hospitals Millers Road to get the finest treatment for epilepsy.