Special Precautions During Pregnancy

Most women with epilepsy continue to take their antiseizure medications when they become pregnant, and eventually give birth to normal, healthy babies.44 Nonetheless, the incidence of birth defects is increased somewhat in children of mothers with epilepsy compared with children of mothers who are not epilep- 

women taking antiepileptic drugs should discuss the potential risks with their family members and physician, and consider whether they will continue taking their medication(s).38 If an expectant mother continues to take her medication(s), using one drug (monotherapy) at the lowest effective dose will help reduce the risk of harmful effects on the fetus.1,43 In addition, mothers should receive optimal prenatal care (folic acid supplementation, proper amounts of exercise, rest, and so forth) to help ensure the baby s health.27,43 After delivery, the baby should be monitored initially for drug-related effects such as withdrawal symptoms, and should be subsequently evaluated for developmental delays that might become apparent later in childhood.27 

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There are a few absolute contraindications for deep peeling, mainly physical or mental instability. During pregnancy and lactation any cosmetic intervention is considered undesirable. All patients are required to perform electrocardiogram and complete blood count prior to the procedure. Any heart disease requires special precautions and it is always recommended to work in cooperation with the patient s cardiologist. 

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