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Webinar: Adult Epilepsy: Common Clinical Issues and New Therapies Event Date: November 2, 2015 | 1:00pm - 2:00pm ET

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@tessa.cadle

I was diagnosed with epilepsy when I was 15. I am now 23 almost 24, and have been seizure free for almost 8 years. I have yearly appointments with my neurologist. I am on 3 different seizure medicaitons, Lamictal, generic Klonipin, and generic Keppra. I am also on Straterra due to the side effects of my seizure medications causing me to have ADD. I take my medications twice a day at the same time (5:30AM and 5:30PM). My fiance and I have been wondering about having children before I turn 30. What do you suggest about the ways I could safely get pregnant but still be able to stay on my medications?

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Replies to "I was diagnosed with epilepsy when I was 15. I am now 23 almost 24, and..."

Congratulations on being seizure free for so long, Tessa! And it’s great you’re making plans for a healthy pregnancy now. The odds of a positive pregnancy are overwhelmingly in your favor.

Before you try to conceive, schedule appointments with the health care provider who'll be handling your pregnancy and your neurologist to talk about any treatment changes you might need to make before pregnancy begins. Take your anti-seizure medication exactly as prescribed. Don't adjust the dose or stop taking the medication on your own. Remember, uncontrolled seizures likely pose a greater risk to your baby than does any medication. It's also important to make healthy lifestyle choices, like eating a healthy diet, taking prenatal vitamins, and getting enough sleep.

You may find this page useful: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/pregnancy/art-20048417.