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1 results

  • 20 - Risks of birth defects in children born to mothers with epilepsy

  • from Part V - Family planning, pregnancy, and parenting
    • By Aline T. Derdiarian, California, USA, Yasser Y. El-Sayed, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Stanford University Medical Center, Standford Hospital, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305
  • Edited by Martha J. Morrell, Columbia University, New York, Kerry L. Flynn, Columbia-Presbyterian Cancer Center, New York
  • Book:
    Women with Epilepsy
    Published online:
    02 November 2009
    Print publication:
    20 March 2003, pp 215-221

  • Summary

    This chapter talks about gynecological and obstetrical care of women with epilepsy. Birth defects include major congenital malformations and minor anomalies. Major malformations are somewhat more common in children born to mothers with epilepsy, even if those mothers did not use antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) during pregnancy. There are several ways in which AEDs can cause birth defects. Folic acid deficiency is a probable cause of birth defects in children exposed to AEDs in utero (as fetuses). With careful preconception and frequent prenatal evaluations, women with epilepsy can minimize their risks for birth defects and maximize their potential for good outcomes. Multivitamins with folic acid may reduce the risk of major malformations and minor anomalies. Other preventative measures include routine and special laboratory studies, high-level ultrasound at 16-18 weeks' gestation and, if indicated, amniocentesis.