Understanding Anti-seizure Medications (ASMs) & Baby Development
Studies on children born to a parent taking ASMs during pregnancy have shown that for many ASMs, there was little or no difference in the development of babies compared to those born to people who did not take ASMs. The risks of taking certain ASMs during pregnancy are relatively low when compared with other types of medicines or exposure to other substances like thalidomide or alcohol.
ASMs & Pregnancy
o improve your chances for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby, ideally you should start planning any adjustments to your ASMs as much as 12 months before trying to become pregnant.
Common Questions about Anti-seizure Medications (ASMs) & Baby Development
Consult With Your Doctor
We understand how having epilepsy can increase your stress about becoming pregnant and delivering a healthy baby. You can rest assured that there is significant research about the safety of various ASMs for you and your baby. Continuing to take your ASM as prescribed throughout pregnancy is an important step in keeping you and your baby safe and healthy.
Download our Pregnancy Planning With Epilepsy - Questions to Ask Your Doctors, and bring a copy to your appointments to help guide your conversations and get the answers you need.
You can also use the Epilepsy Foundation Seizure Diary to track your seizures and share the information with your doctor.
Educating yourself on all that’s involved and making the right decisions before you try to get pregnant can make that journey much easier, less stressful, and safer, for you and your baby.
Reviewed by: Page Pennell, MD FAES, September 2023