Clinical Investigation

Retrospective evaluation of the pregnancy outcomes of women with epilepsy

  • Mert Kazandı
  • Deniz Ulusoy
  • Timuçin Kurtuluş Mermer
  • İsmail Mete İtil

Turk J Obstet Gynecol 2010;7(3):212-217

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to investigate obstetric and neonatal outcomes and to discuss benefit effects of preconception counseling of women with epilepsy.

Design:

Retrospective evaluation of the pregnancy outcomes of women with epilepsy, which it was diagnosed by neurologist at Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ege University School of Medicine, İzmir, between january 2004 and november 2009. Data according to demographic, obstetric and neonatal variables were collected retrospectively from the records of 66 pregnants with epilepsy. We also investigated the pregnancy outcomes related to AED using and preconception counseling.

Setting:

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ege University School of Medicine, İzmir Patients: 66 pregnants with epilepsy.

Results:

The mean maternal age was 28,3±6,3. the median gestational age and fetal weight was 38±0,7 weeks and 3027±341 gr at the time of birth, respectively. Fourteen pregnants (%23,1) were borned before 37. gestational weeks. There were no adverse fetal outcomes and major or minor congenital malformations. The preconception counseling ratio was % 57,57 (n: 38) in study group and all of these used antiepileptic drugs during pregnancy. 28 (%42,43) pregnants with epilepsy didn’t applied preconception counseling that 17 cases of them discontinued their medical terapy during first trimester. Epileptic seizures were commonly developed because of leaving AED.

Conclusion:

The pregnants with epilepsy have some risk according to disease and medical terapy. A good team work is required by experienced obstetrician and neurologist for management. Then, favorable pregnancy outcomes may be obtained as like as general population.

Keywords: epilepsy, pregnancy, antiepileptic drugs, preconception counseling.