Sex life

Lots of women with epilepsy enjoy a healthy sex life and their epilepsy does not affect this in any way. However, some women do experience problems with their sex life. For example, you may have a reduced sex drive or problems with becoming sexually aroused. There are many possible reasons for this, which are not necessarily related to your epilepsy.

Some studies have shown that sexual problems in women with epilepsy may be linked to psychological reasons such as stress, depression and worry. For example, you might worry about having a seizure during sex (in fact, a seizure is no more likely to occur at this time than at any other). Sexual problems may also be connected to your epilepsy type, seizure frequency or anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs). 

If you are concerned that you lack interest in sex or you have other problems related to sex, you are not alone. It would be a good idea to talk things over with your family doctor. If they feel that this could be connected to your epilepsy or AEDs, they may refer you to see an epilepsy specialist.

Useful contacts (UK)

Friendships and dating agencies

• Outsiders Club
• Write Away
• Youreable

Counselling

• Relate

Sexuality, impotence and fertility

• Sexual Dysfunction
• Family Planning Association
• Institute of Psychosexual Medicine
• Outsiders Sex and Disability Helpline

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