Epilepsy in Pregnancy: Optimization of Maternal-Fetal Outcomes
Abstract: Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by a predisposition to recurrent, unprovoked epileptic seizures resulting from abnormal, excessive, or synchronous neuronal activity in the brain. Pregnancy in women with epilepsy requires multidisciplinary management because physiological changes during gestation may alter antiseizure medication (ASM) pharmacokinetics, affect seizure control, and influence maternal and fetal outcomes. Although most women with epilepsy experience favorable pregnancy outcomes, the risks of congenital malformations, fetal growth restriction, maternal injury, and pregnancy-related complications vary according to seizure control, the specific medication used, dosage, and the presence of comorbidities. Optimal management includes preconception counseling, individualized ASM selection, folic acid supplementation, regular neurological and obstetric assessment, appropriate fetal surveillance, and careful intrapartum and postpartum planning. Epilepsy alone is not an indication for cesarean delivery, and breastfeeding is generally encouraged with appropriate medication-specific counseling. This review summarizes the principal clinical considerations in the management of epilepsy during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and the postpartum period.
Keywords: Epilepsy; pregnancy; antiseizure medications; maternal health; fetal outcomes; labor; breastfeeding; contraception
How to Cite?: Dr. Weeda Noori, "Epilepsy in Pregnancy: Optimization of Maternal-Fetal Outcomes", Volume 15 Issue 11, November 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 425-429, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR261104110623, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR261104110623