MyEpilepsyTeam

Is increased seizure activity during your period common?

Yes, what you're experiencing is actually quite common. About 42% of women with epilepsy experience catamenial epilepsy, which means seizures that are linked to the menstrual cycle. That's roughly 300,000 to 500,000 people in the United States.

Seizures most commonly Show Full Answer

Is increased seizure activity during your period common?

Yes, what you're experiencing is actually quite common. About 42% of women with epilepsy experience catamenial epilepsy, which means seizures that are linked to the menstrual cycle. That's roughly 300,000 to 500,000 people in the United States.

Seizures most commonly increase during three specific times:

- Just before or during your period (perimenstrual seizures)
- During midcycle when ovulation occurs (periovulatory seizures)
- During cycles when you miss a period (anovulatory cycles)

The most common pattern is having more seizures three days before your period starts and three days into it, which sounds like what you're experiencing right now. Why does this happen?

The increase in seizures is believed to be related to hormonal changes during your cycle. Progesterone has anti-seizure effects and helps protect against seizures, while estrogen can excite neurons and increase seizure likelihood.

During your period, progesterone levels drop to their lowest point, which may lower your seizure threshold and make you more vulnerable to breakthrough seizures like the focal seizure and strong aura you experienced.

Many women with epilepsy notice this pattern, so you're definitely not alone in dealing with this challenge.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Catamenial Epilepsy Explained