50% of people affected by #epilepsy are women. For us lot with the XX chromosomes, epilepsy frequently leads to additional serious issues/considerations - whether we have/desire children or not.

Menstruation/reproduction:
- Seizures around periods (catamenial epilepsy)
(1/6)

- Additional mood fluctuations resulting from delightful hormonal variances (the stress of which can lead to seizures)
⁃ Reduced energy levels due to blood loss (periods) (which can lead to seizures)
(2/6)

Pregnancy/reproduction fears...

⁃ Regular societal expectations for sexual reproduction - with complete disregard of the additional stresses of doing so when one has #epilepsy;

⁃ Fewer options regarding contraception due to drug interactions (equalling extra stress);
(3/6)

⁃ Pregnancies themselves (which cause hormonal fluctuations & stress which can lead to seizures and potential loss of fetus/baby);

⁃ Far greater emphasis on planning pregnancies due to potential impacts on AEDs on the fetus/baby & reduced absorption rates of vitamins;

(4/6)

⁃ Accepting risk of AEDs on the fetus/baby;

⁃ IF choosing to have children, figuring out how they will cope with the stress & lack of sleep without having #seizures;

- Bone breakage (thanks hormones & AEDs - particularly when going through stages of #menopause);

(5/6)

Women need appropriate specialist healthcare regarding the above to help then manage & have fulfilled lives.

Plus, do note: having 50% of the population happier and healthier, shall lead to greater happiness & health for the other 50%

#feminism #equality #epilepsy

(6/6)

@matronkim @epilepsynurse @epilepsymidwife @ESNA_epilepsy @EpilepsyRUK @EpilepsyConnexn @EpilepsyBehavi1 @epilepsymumbai @IlaeWeb @epilepsy_liv @Dr_Rhys @haritsa1 @RebelSpeducator @alyrical @AngiePullen1 @SammyatSUDEP @Precious1Tolu @LorrieForseth @Chris_Lisgaras @lance_fogan