Women: hormones, sex and epilepsy

3 minute read

Fast facts

Epilepsy can change as your body changes when growing up and becoming an adult
Some types of epilepsy start during puberty (the time when your body changes from a child to an adult)
Once your periods have started it is possible to get pregnant. This is sometimes called child-bearing potential. Your doctors will warn you to avoid an unplanned pregnancy
If you are of child-bearing potential your doctor should not prescribe you valproate medicines unless there is no alternative
Changing hormone levels can trigger seizures
It’s very rare to have a seizure triggered by sex
Some epilepsy medicine can cause you to have less interest in sex
Girls and women with epilepsy are more likely to have irregular periods
Some women have more seizures around the time of their periods
The contraception that will work for you depends on which epilepsy medicine you’re taking
Some epilepsy medicines are more safe during pregnancy than others
Some women with epilepsy may have reduced fertility

If you’re thinking about having children it’s best to plan this well in advance. Ask your doctor or epilepsy nurse about pre-conception counselling

If you’re worried about sexual problems find someone to talk to (there's some suggestions below)

Keep a seizure diary

If you become pregnant, don’t stop taking your epilepsy medicine. Talk to your doctor or nurse as soon as possible

Stories by you

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Do something

If you think there might be a link between seizures and your periods, keep a seizure diary. Can you spot any pattern between your menstrual cycle and seizures? If you spot a pattern, talk to your doctor.