Abstracts

Rationale: In recent years, neurologists have become increasingly aware of the importance of gender specific issues throughout life when treating women with epilepsy. In clinical practice however, general practitioners and gynaecologists are more likely to be consulted about menstrual disturbances, contraception, fertility, pregnancy, breast feeding, menopause and osteoporosis prophylaxis. Women with epilepsy experience a variety of advices in these issues or no advice at all, and national guidelines in the treatment of women with epilepsy were in demand. Methods: Near 30 consultants in neurology and gynaecology from university and municipal hospitals in Norway participated in writing the guidelines. The clinicians were divided in 6 groups; 1) Puberty, menstrual disturbances and gender-specific side effect of antiepileptic drugs, 2) Contraception, 3) Pregnancy, 4) Breast feeding, 5) Sexuality, and 6) Menopause and bone health. Every group consisted of both neurologists and gynaecologists. The work was headed by a steering committee with a coordinator (LSR). Results: Completed document based on consensus and advices on the treatment of women with epilepsy were given with 3 classes of evidence. The national societies for general practitioners, gynaecologists and neurologists all affirmed the document.Conclusions: A consensus among neurologists and gynaecologists in Norway over the current treatment of women with epilepsy has been made. A nationwide distribution is made possible by publication through the Norwegian Medical Association (http://www.legeforeningen.no/asset/33810/1/33810_1.pdf). An English summary of the guidelines is given in: Røste LS, Taubøll E. Expert Rev Neurotherapeutics 2007; 7, 289-300