Contraception and epilepsy

In this section

• Introduction
• Planning a pregnancy
• Contraception and hormones
• Further sources of information about contraception
• Methods of regular contraception and how they work
• Methods of emergency contraception and how they work
• Anti-epileptic drugs and contraception - a quick guide

Acknowledgement
Epilepsy Action would like to thank Dr Naghme Adab, consultant neurologist at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, for reviewing this information before publication. 

Introduction

The aim of these web pages is to explain how different methods of contraception may be affected by epilepsy or interact with anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs). This will let you know which methods of contraception may work for you. It’s advisable to discuss this information with your own doctor or staff at your local family planning clinic. They will give you more detailed advice about contraception that will suit you.