OVERVIEW:
Using a
historical framework, this lecture highlights the progress that has been made
in reproductive rights and pregnancy outcomes for women with epilepsy.
In the
1970s, mandatory sterilization laws still existed for women with epilepsy. Even
after these were repealed, stigma persisted within society. Health care
providers discouraged women from becoming pregnant. Only recently has this
practice been replaced by offering patients objective data that allows women to
make informed choices about family planning.
This
lecture reviews recent studies to support safe and effective treatment
strategies for women with epilepsy.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
Following
participation in this activity, participants will be able to:
- Increase overall knowledge about the history of limited reproductive rights for people with epilepsy
- Recognize there are some anti-seizure medications that have been shown to be safe during pregnancy for developing child
- Recognize treatment strategies to keep women with epilepsy safe from seizure worsening during pregnancy and postpartum periods
Speaker: Page Pennell, MD, FAES