# A Comprehensive Review on the Influence of Menstrual Cycle and Pregnancy on Epileptic Seizures

## TL;DR

This review explores how hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy affect epileptic seizures in women.

## Contribution

The paper consolidates existing knowledge on hormonal influences on epilepsy and identifies gaps for future research.

## Key findings

- Estrogen increases neuronal excitability, while progesterone has a stabilizing effect on seizure thresholds.
- Catamenial epilepsy shows seizure patterns linked to specific menstrual cycle phases.
- Pregnancy introduces complex hormonal shifts that can alter seizure frequency unpredictably.

## Abstract

This narrative review aims to assess the influence of hormonal balance during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy on the severity of epileptic seizures. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly in estrogen and progesterone levels, significantly influence neuronal excitability and seizure thresholds, with estrogen generally enhancing excitatory activity and progesterone providing a stabilizing effect. These hormonal variations are particularly evident in conditions like catamenial epilepsy, where seizure frequency corresponds to specific phases of the menstrual cycle. Pregnancy adds further complexity, as shifts in hormonal dominance can lead to variable effects on seizure patterns. Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing tailored management strategies to improve outcomes for women with epilepsy during their reproductive years. This review consolidates existing knowledge and highlights areas where further research is needed to address clinical challenges and optimize care.