What are the chances of an epileptic woman on Valproic Acid giving birth to a healthy baby?

by Dr. Gerard M. DiLeo

What are the chances of an epileptic woman on Valproic Acid giving birth to a healthy baby?

Valproic Acid is listed as a medicine that can cause abnormalities. The most common form of abnormality is a neural tube defect (spina bifida, etc.). This is when exposure is in the first month of pregnancy.

The studies on Valproic Acid are confusing, because just having epilepsy puts one at a higher risk for abnromalities. Nevertheless, although it is quite possible to have a completely normal baby while on Valproic Acid, your doctor may want you to consult a Maternal-Fetal Specialist for a different anticonvulsant. Seeing one before you get pregnant would be even better.

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