Maternal Outcomes in Women with Epilepsy

What we are studying

Most women with epilepsy have normal pregnancies, but appear to be at risk for problems during pregnancy (e.g., seizures, change in medications, depression, c-sections) and adverse outcomes in their children (e.g., thinking or behavioral problems). The purpose of this observational study is to establish the relationship between antiepileptic drug (AED) exposure and outcomes in the mother and child as well as describe and explain the variability in AED exposure and response. For pregnant women, the study will follow their babies for any signs of developmental problems with free Neuropsych testing until the age of 3 years. The results of these tests will be available to the treating pediatricians if needed for early intervention.

Who we are studying

Women
Races:
- White
- African American
- Asian
- American Indian or Alaska Native
- Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander
- Other
All Ethnicities
Ages 18+

Eligibility Criteria

Pregnant women with epilepsy up to 20 weeks gestation
Pregnant women without epilepsy up to 20 weeks gestation
Non-Pregnant women with epilepsy

What is involved

11 study visits and 9 telephone contacts
Visits will occur about every 3 months
Patient will also receive an iPod 4 touch to track their seizures during the study which they get to keep after the study is done
Babies will be followed for 3 years after they are born for any signs of developmental problems with free Neuropsych testing

Compensation:

Pregnant participants will receive $1000 for completing all scheduled study visits, Non-pregnant participants will receive $250 for completing all scheduled study visits.