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Chapter 9 - Fertility in Women with Epilepsy

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  19 December 2024

By
Lidia Di Vito ,
Mark Quigg  and
Barbara Mostacci
Edited by
Esther Bui  and
P. Emanuela Voinescu
Esther Bui
Affiliation:
Toronto Western Hospital
P. Emanuela Voinescu
Affiliation:
Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
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Summary

Most studies on fertility in women with epilepsy (WWE), either based on public databases, or on clinical samples, found diminished rates, ranging between 59 and 95%, compared to controls. Several factors underlie reduced fertility in WWE, including historical and psychosocial determinants. Moreover, increased rates of hyposexuality and of multiple reproductive dysfunctions have been reported in WWE, including polycystic ovarian syndrome, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and premature menopause. Reproductive issues have been associated both with seizures and with some antiseizure medications (ASMs), namely valproate and enzyme-inducers. Neurologists caring for WWE should investigate the reproductive history of their patients, check for signs of hyperandrogenism, proactively counsel on reproductive issues.

Type
Chapter
Information
Women with Epilepsy
A Practical Management Handbook
 , pp. 149 - 167
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2025

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