Seizure control and foetal malformation in primiparous women with Epilepsy: statistical analysis of data from a prospective observational study

Abstract

Purpose To evaluate seizure control and foetal malformation in the first pregnancy of women with epilepsy through the analysis of the Australian Pregnancy Register database focusing of women with epilepsy intending or beginning their first pregnancy. This was achieved through a statistical analysis of existing data. Principal results Achieving full seizure freedom for a year before pregnancy would offer a better chance of seizure-free pregnancy if it can be done without increasing the simultaneous foetal malformation hazard due to medication change. Major conclusion Currently available antiseizure medications may achieve a better chance of seizure freedom throughout primiparous pregnancy at the hazard of an increased chance of foetal malformation. The seizure-affected pregnancy occurrence rate depends mainly on pre-pregnancy seizure control, the foetal malformation rate on antiseizure therapy.