Prescribed medications and treatments for seizures and epilepsy can bring about both physical and psychological side effects, creating a ripple effect in the lives of those affected by epilepsy and their loved ones.

Despite the universal diagnosis of epilepsy, prejudice rears its ugly head when it comes to providing care for underserved communities of color and the poor. Join Rain Down Purple in the fight against discrimination and advocate for equal access to quality healthcare for all.

Hormonal shifts during a woman’s menstrual cycle can impact seizure patterns and lead to catamenial epilepsy. Pregnancy and menopause also bring hormonal fluctuations that can affect reproductive health, especially with the medications and treatments women receive for epilepsy. These changes can also increase the risk of mental health challenges like depression and anxiety.

Living with epilepsy can impact men in various ways. Some medications used to manage seizures can affect testosterone levels, potentially leading to issues like decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. Additionally, epilepsy can influence sperm quality and quantity, potentially impacting fertility rates. Men with epilepsy may have lower fertility rates compared to the general population and are at a higher risk of experiencing mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety. Some individuals may also notice changes in behavior like increased irritability or aggression, which could be side effects of certain medications.