Controversies in Caring for Women with Epilepsy

Mona Sazgar, MDProfessor of Clinical NeurologyComprehensive Epilepsy Program, University of California, Irvine, Orange, CA, USA
Cynthia L. Harden, MDSystem Director of Epilepsy Services, Mount Sinai Health SystemMount Sinai Beth Israel Phillips Ambulatory Care Center10 Union Square East, Suite 5DNew York, NY 10003Phone 212-844-8888 Fax 212-844-8481charden@CHPNET.ORG

This text presents difficult management issues surrounding women with epilepsy in a unique format. The Editors provide several controversial cases in adolescence, pre-conception, pregnancy and menopause with invited experts offering their differing opinions.  The Editors compare the clinical approaches and build a consensus based on the best available evidence.  Professionals charged with managing this challenging patient group will be given insights on providing the best possible care based on current available data and expert opinion.

Case-based guide to the common clinical scenarios of women with epilepsy

I. Adolescence.- 1. New Onset Primary Generalized Epilepsy in Adolescence.- 2. New Onset Partial Epilepsy in Adolescence.- 3. Catamenial Epilepsy in Adolescence.- 4. Contraception Choice in Adolescence.- II. Pre-Conception Counseling.- 5. Folic Acid Supplementation.- 6. Risk of Seizure during Pregnancy.- 7. Seizure Medications and Teratogenicity.- 8. Valproic Acid and Pregnancy: Failed Other Medications.- 9. Valproic Acid and Pregnancy: Not Tried Other Medications.- 10. Epilepsy Inheritance.- 11. Infertility and Menstrual Disorders: Seizure Medications vs. Seizures.- 12. Ever Advise Against Pregnancy?.- III. Pregnancy/Breast Feeding.- 13. New Onset Seizures during Pregnancy.- 14. Valproic Acid and Pregnancy.- 15. Lamictal and Pregnancy.- 16. What is Your Advice to Pregnant Women with Epilepsy Regarding Breast Feeding?.- IV. Menopause.- 17. Change in Seizure Pattern and Menopause.