Cramping Your Style - Periods and Epilepsy

Periods. They’re part of life. We know the monthly fun they can bring so it’s no surprise they’re nicknamed ‘the curse’. Unlike the TV ads for sanitary towels – we know how periods really make us feel. And let’s be honest, there’s not many of us who feel like dancing around in public wearing a white tutu when mother nature’s little gift arrives. We’d much rather be sat watching Netflix with chocolate close to hand, wouldn’t we? That’s not to say that having a period doesn’t give us a surge of energy though – there are positives that it brings once a month. It’s all about channelling the good, self-care and managing your cycle as best you can. But what happens when you have epilepsy to manage too?

Do epilepsy and periods affect each other?

Everyone is different. As is every menstrual cycle, which lasts around 28 days on average (although can range from 21 to 45 days for teens). Some women find that their period is affected by their epilepsy and their cycle is mainly irregular, yet for others they can set their clock by their bodies.

During our menstrual cycles, we go through many hormonal changes as women. We cry. We bloat. We feel sensitive. We bleed. We feel better. And repeat.

Some women find they’re more prone to seizures during ovulation, right in the middle of their cycle. You may hear this referred to as Catamenial Epilepsy. Women’s bodies release oestrogen and progesterone during our cycles naturally, which affects the brain. Research shows that high levels of oestrogen can trigger seizures but high levels of progesterone can reduce them. It’s a fine balancing act. But it’s one you can achieve with the support of your epilepsy doctor and adjusting your AEDs.

Keeping track of seizures

Could you track your period and predict times of the month that are riskier than others? If your periods are regular, they’re easy to track. If they’re not, this can be trickier. Keeping a diary/making notes on a calendar or app will help you log your cycle and spot patterns with your seizures. This may help you understand if your period is a trigger and if you notice a connection your epilepsy doctor could help you manage this on a monthly basis.

(Sodium) Valproate and your period

If you’re taking Sodium Valproate to manage your epilepsy you’ve probably been advised by your epilepsy doctor of the side effects. This drug may disturb your menstrual cycle. It can delay your periods from starting and cause them to be irregular – which can make tracking your cycle difficult.  As valproate can cause serious harm to an unborn baby if taken during pregnancy, you’ll need regular reviews with your doctor if you’re taking this and your periods have started. If you’re having sex, valproate can have a serious effect on your contraceptive options. Talk to your epilepsy doctor if you have any questions about valproate or if you’re experiencing side effects.

PMT and epilepsy

Premenstrual Tension (PMT) happens to us all. It can’t be helped. Sometimes our periods make us feel emotional, moody, stressed and tired. But they can also cause anxiety leading up to your period especially if you’re worried it may trigger a seizure. If you feel that PMT is controlling you more than you’re controlling it, talk to your epilepsy doctor. Yes, PMT is natural and happens to everyone. But that doesn’t mean you should suffer if something could be done to help.

Migraines

Let’s talk about migraines. Sometimes these go hand-in-hand with a period and the two arrive at the same time. And they’re not welcome company. Migraines and seizures share many similar symptoms: nausea, sensitivity to light and sound and visual auras. And migraines, like seizures, steal time and energy. They can also cause anxiety if you know they’re a trigger for a seizure. If migraines are becoming your period’s bestie, talk to your epilepsy doctor about your options to distance the two.

Cramps

Your hot water bottle may become your closest companion if stomach cramps decide to visit with your period. Sometimes this can be mild and similar to a stomach ache. Other times it can feel more severe, like a sharp stabbing pain in your lower abdomen, and can cause extreme discomfort and fatigue. Cramping could be a sign of other conditions like endometriosis. So, if this pain is frequent don’t suffer in silence – chat to your epilepsy doctor about pain relief that’s compatible with your meds.

Menstrual management

Just like your epilepsy, finding the right ways to manage your menstrual cycle takes time. They’re individual to your body. And they rely on self-care. On taking the time your body needs to adjust. And no-one knows your body better than you do.  Periods are a pain. But that doesn’t mean they should be the root of it. If your periods are becoming a problem, getting you down or are affecting your epilepsy have a chat with your epilepsy doctor. Be honest about how you feel and look at possible treatments together.

You might also be interested in