Connect with others who understand.

Sign up Log in
Resources
About MyEpilepsyTeam
Powered By
Real members of MyEpilepsyTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

This Question Pertains To Women. Have Any Of You Been Diagnosed With Catamenial Epilepsy?

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
Boise, ID
October 3
View reactions
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

They’re horrible I get clusters every month 1 week before my menstrual cycle. I asked my neurologist about it & told him my symptoms, that’s when he diagnosed me. 40% of women have it… I’m in that lucky 40% 🙄.
I was prescribed Clonazepm for it. I would definitely speak to your Dr. about it.

October 3
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

The brain uses both estrogen + testosterone to function. Usually levels high so for woman monthly rise & fall which may cause moods if epileptic more seizures. Once Dr helped by me by taking more meds just before time of month. Some use birth control pills to regulate rise + fall of. Ask Dr if an endocrinologist could help see how high estrogen levels are. Saw Dr Herzoag a famous Enocnologist/Neurologist back in 1988 told me that estrogen helps a womans body as well. Like now my bone density at 68 was like that of a woman twenty yrs younger. Ask Dr for more info to ease mind best bout yourself.

October 11
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

I think mine same as that :( before or after menstruation i don't feel good. But usually i thank god that my seizure affect once or twice a year only. ❤

October 11
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

I think that's what I have almost every month I have one I really do hate them

October 3
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Yes, catamenial epilepsy is a type of epilepsy that specifically affects women and is associated with their menstrual cycles. About 42% of women with epilepsy have catamenial epilepsy, which equates to 300,000 to 500,000 people in the U.S. It's characterized by seizures that tend to cluster around certain phases of the Show Full Answer

Yes, catamenial epilepsy is a type of epilepsy that specifically affects women and is associated with their menstrual cycles. About 42% of women with epilepsy have catamenial epilepsy, which equates to 300,000 to 500,000 people in the U.S. It's characterized by seizures that tend to cluster around certain phases of the menstrual cycle, often when estrogen levels are high and progesterone levels are low. The symptoms of catamenial epilepsy seizures depend on the type of seizure, but can include unusual smells/tastes, feelings of déjà vu, twitching, difficulty speaking, impaired awareness, random noises, lip smacking, etc. It's critical for women who suspect they have catamenial epilepsy to track their seizures and menstrual cycles closely to aid in diagnosis and treatment.

October 3
Sponsored Content
Learn more about treatment options for epilepsy Read more >

Related content

View All

Who Is Eligible For VNS?

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
Roachdale, IN

Pregnancy And Epilepsy Medicines?

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
New York, NY

What Type Of Seizures Does The Vns Implant Helpful For?

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
Lewiston, ME
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data Policy and Privacy policies.Your privacy is our priority Lock Icon
Already a Member? Log in