I had my first seizure 24 years ago at the age of 21. Since then, I have married, had 3 healthy children, miscarried one child, had several responsible jobs, worked voluntarily with my local BEA branch for 19 years and recently passed my driving test. I have been seizure free for five years.

Coping hasn’t always been easy. I have had periods of uncontrolled seizures, medication problems, received conflicting advice on contraception, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and my children’s immunisations and now choices may be made about HRT.

These days, however, more facts about women’s issues are available, enabling us to make informed decisions – so be positive and don’t allow epilepsy to rule your lives!