Emory Women's Mental Health Program | Questions and Answers

Should I stop my antiepileptic medication before I get pregnant?
This is a complicated decision. Pregnancy without antiepileptic medication might lessen some of the possible risks to the baby. However, the danger of seizures to both the mother and the child is a serious one. Seizures can result in falls or in lack of oxygen for the baby. They can increase the risk of miscarriage or stillbirths. For most women with epilepsy, staying on medication poses less risk to their own health and the health of their babies than discontinuing medication. In most cases, a single medication at the lowest possible dose that provides seizure control is the best option.
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