Birth Defects, Epilepsy Drug Links: Study Reveals Pregnant Women Taking Epilepsy Drug Increase Birth Defect Risks

Pregnant women who suffer from episodes of epilepsy usually take medication to manage their condition. But a new study has revealed that the continuous intake of epilepsy drugs can likely increase birth defect risks to the baby. Worse, most moms are not even aware that their medication is causing this.

The study, which has been conducted in the U.K. and published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, cites that thousands of pregnant women take epilepsy drugs containing sodium valproate for seizure control. But at least 40 percent of babies exposed to sodium valproate as fetuses end up with developmental problems affecting their speech and motor skills.

The researchers looked into data of British mothers who have been taking epilepsy drug since 1973. They found out that among 48,000 babies, some 19,200 babies had developmental problems, Daily Mail reports. Among these include underdeveloped brains, speech delay, digestive and visual problems, as well as pronounced weak and undersized limbs that also opens up other physical issues.

Young Epilepsy, Epilepsy Action and the Epilepsy Society conducted a survey among pregnant women taking epilepsy drug in line with the research. The results showed that most moms are not aware that their medication poses risks to their unborn child.

According to Science Daily, the latest findings support previous studies regarding the use of epilepsy drug among pregnant women. Time and again, experts professed that its intake must be properly regulated and balanced to protect the health of the mother and the fetus. It is the duty of the medical community to inform their patients about the drugs' potential risks.

The researchers recommend that pregnant women with epilepsy should have a comprehensive and thorough discussion with their medical providers. They should be informed that the drug they rely on for seizure control will likely affect their baby and then work with their doctors for a proper health plan. For more information on birth defects, epilepsy drugs and women with this condition, check out the video below.