Steps to Take to Manage an Unplanned Pregnancy & Epilepsy
An unplanned pregnancy can be stressful, especially if you have epilepsy. You’re not alone if you find out you’re pregnant and weren’t actively planning to have a child. In the general US population, approximately 50% of pregnancies are unplanned. Some studies found that up to 65% of women with epilepsy reported at least one unplanned pregnancy.
There is no need to panic if you experience an unplanned pregnancy. In most cases your pregnancy can still be safe and healthy, and your doctor can help you make a plan to manage your pregnancy.
Common Questions About Unplanned Pregnancy & Epilepsy
Consult With Your Doctor
We understand how important it is for you to have a healthy pregnancy. And how the combination of an unplanned pregnancy, epilepsy, and taking ASMs can increase your stress about managing your pregnancy and delivering a healthy baby. However, there is no need to panic. Your care team will help you navigate your pregnancy.
Educating yourself on all that’s involved and making the right decisions as soon as possible can make that journey much easier, less stressful, and safer, for you and your baby.
Download our Pregnancy and Delivery 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.
Use our Epilepsy and Pregnancy Appointment Calendar to track your doctor appointments, key milestones, and upcoming activities all in one place.
You can also use the Epilepsy Foundation Seizure Diary to track your seizures and share the information with your doctor.
Reviewed by: Page Pennell, MD FAES, September 2023