Community Forum Archive
The Epilepsy Community Forums are closed, and the information is archived. The content in this section may not be current or apply to all situations. In addition, forum questions and responses include information and content that has been generated by epilepsy community members. This content is not moderated. The information on these pages should not be substituted for medical advice from a healthcare provider. Experiences with epilepsy can vary greatly on an individual basis. Please contact your doctor or medical team if you have any questions about your situation. For more information, learn about epilepsy or visit our resources section.
Experiences of Being on Depakote & birth control
Fri, 04/20/2007 - 02:22Topic: Women With Epilepsy
Hi, everyone, new here, I just found this site. I just was wondering what everyone's experiences were with birth control & taking Depakote. My story in short form is that I have seizures since age 11, was on Depakote for 7 years, then taken off at age 22 due to no seizures for several years, then I had my 2nd child & had a grand mal 6 wks after delivery. I was put back on Depakote & had an IUD put in because my OB felt it was the best choice. That was 6 months ago & I have had several major problems with the IUD, namely that I have heavy bleeding throughout my cycle, only a 6 day break, & I have severe acne which doesn't respond to any treatment my dermatologist gives me. I was thinking about taking out the IUD & going on the pill, but am worried about getting pregnant. I still want to have more kids, but I don't want them to have birth defects b/c of my Depakote. My neurologist feels that any other seizure drug wouldn't be as effective for my seizure disorder. Has anyone gotten pregnant while taking Depakote & the birth control pill? Any help would be appreciated.
Re: Experiences of Being on Depakote & birth control
Submitted by rosegirl on Fri, 2007-05-11 - 17:52
My doc said that another option, besides starting a new drug or increasing my current levels, would be to go on "the shot" and start decreasing one of my drugs. I'm sorry I don't know much about the pill since I can't take it because of my meds. I know that it's effectiveness is lowered because of the medication but if you are only on Depakote, it would probably be more effective. But don't take my info to the bank. Ask your gyno about the shot. Maybe that is a different option.