November is Epilepsy Awareness Month, a time to support, educate, and empower women living with epilepsy — especially those planning for or experiencing pregnancy.

At Comprehensive OB-GYN, we believe every woman deserves a safe, healthy pregnancy, regardless of her medical history. For women with epilepsy, that begins with awareness, early planning, and a strong care team.

Understanding Epilepsy and Pregnancy

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that causes recurrent seizures. Many women with epilepsy can and do have healthy pregnancies. However, managing epilepsy during this time requires careful attention — both for the mother’s safety and the baby’s development.

Pregnancy can slightly change how your body processes seizure medications. This means your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or monitor you more closely. The good news? With the right care and coordination, most women with epilepsy deliver healthy babies.

Preconception Planning Matters

If you’re thinking about pregnancy and live with epilepsy, start planning early.
Preconception counseling allows your OB-GYN and neurologist to:

  • Review your current medications: Some anti-seizure drugs may need to be adjusted before conception to reduce potential risks to the baby.

  • Ensure folic acid supplementation: High-dose folic acid is often recommended before and during pregnancy to help prevent neural tube defects.

  • Coordinate care: Regular communication between your OB-GYN and neurologist ensures the best outcomes for both mom and baby.

During Pregnancy: Safety Comes First

Close monitoring is key. At Comprehensive OB-GYN, we partner with your neurologist to track your health, medication levels, and baby’s growth throughout your pregnancy.

Our approach includes:

  • Regular ultrasounds to ensure healthy fetal development

  • Blood tests to monitor medication levels

  • Personalized prenatal care visits to assess your well-being

Seizure control remains a top priority — for your safety and your baby’s. Never stop or change your medication without consulting your doctor.

Labor, Delivery, and Postpartum Care

Most women with epilepsy have normal deliveries. Your care team will create a birth plan tailored to your needs, ensuring seizure control and safety during labor.

After delivery, it’s important to continue follow-up care:

  • Medication adjustments may be needed postpartum

  • Sleep deprivation can increase seizure risk — seek support during the newborn phase

  • Discuss breastfeeding — most epilepsy medications are compatible, but your doctor will guide you

You Are Not Alone 💜

Living with epilepsy while navigating pregnancy can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to face it alone. Our providers at Comprehensive OB-GYN are here to guide, support, and care for you every step of the way.

Together with your neurology team, we’ll make sure you have a safe, empowering, and healthy pregnancy journey.

💜 Let’s raise awareness this November.

If you or someone you love lives with epilepsy, share this blog to help spread understanding and support.
Every story, every voice, and every mom matters.

Comprehensive OB-GYN
Empowering women through every stage of life. 💜