Epilepsy Treatment for Women

Although many people with epilepsy face a variety of challenges, there are some specific issues that women with epilepsy may encounter, and our program is designed to meet those needs.  

The University of Maryland Women’s Epilepsy Program was created to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care for women with seizures throughout all stages of their lives.  

We provide individualized, multidisciplinary care for each of our patients. Our team approach consists of evaluation and care from epileptologists (physicians specializing in seizure evaluation and treatment), obstetrician/gynecologists (including those who specialize in high-risk pregnancies), epilepsy nurse specialists, psychiatrist, and social work support.

We are one of the only comprehensive epilepsy centers in the region to offer a specialized program geared to meet the needs of women with epilepsy.  

Women's Issues

An initial consultation includes evaluation by one of our epilepsy specialists trained in the care of women with epilepsy. We include a discussion of classification and confirmation of the specific diagnosis of epilepsy with a focus on how seizure medications may be best adjusted and maximized to improve seizure control and reduce risks for issues of women with epilepsy, such as pregnancy and bone health.

We collaborate with your primary care physician, obstetrician/gynecologist and referring neurologist (if applicable) to provide a comprehensive approach to your care and to ensure smooth and clear communication between your care team.

We address a variety of women’s health issues at your initial and future appointments which may include:

• Family planning and contraception
• Catamenial epilepsy (seizures related to the menstrual cycle)
• Hormone replacement
• Bone health
• Associated mood and anxiety disorders
• Social support and housing
• Safety and care of newborns and children

Pregnancy

For our pregnant patients, we have a rapid referral track to have you seen quickly for the first appointment. Your visit will include a discussion about choosing the best medication and dosing to control seizures while reducing potential risks to the baby. During pregnancy, hormone and metabolism changes can affect your medication levels and frequency of seizures.

We monitor our patients closely and have a collaborative approach with the obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) department at University of Maryland and can also work with your OB/GYN if you see one outside of our system. We also offer counseling on folate supplementation, newborn care, breastfeeding and postpartum depression.

Make an Appointment

To make an appointment or to learn more about our program, call 410-328-4323.