epilepsy/PCOS

[pinkflamingo]

Hi all,
I am new to this site and have just posted a thread on the WTT forum as we are due to get married in 2 months and will do that before we try for a baby. I just wanted to find out if anyone has any experience/knowledge about TTC when your OH has epilepsy. I have been reading up on it and found out that it can cause fertility issue, i.e low sperm count and his meds can cause defects in the sperm. I am also undergoing tests for PCOS so feel a little negative about our chances at the moment. I know I shouldn't worry about the PCOS until I know for sure, but from the way my Dr was talking to me, he was certain that it will be a positive result.
If anyone can share any of their stories with me I would appreciate that.
Thanks
PF

 

[sparkle83]

I have PCOS and Epilepsy, but I've not herd of the sperm count issue with any of the meds... which medication is it?

 

[pinkflamingo]

Hi,
He is on epilim chrono (sodium valproate). I have been reading up on it this morning and there have been lots of clinical tests which have shown that valproate causes defects in the tails of the sperm.
I am sorry to hear that you suffer with both of these. A friend of mine has had epilepsy for most of her life and she said the other day that epilim caused her to develop PCOS when she was younger. When I have been reading up on epilepsy for my OH, it seems that it can cause lots of problems for women. Is your PCOS linked to your epilepsy?
Take care,
PF

 

[sparkle83]

Yup, valproate is a horrible drug. I had trouble with weird cycles anyhow, but fine tesosterone, lh/fsh ratio and perfectly clear ovaries before I went on epilim, and then all the symptoms of pcos appeared. Its high risk for cusing pcos and the consultant I saw prescribed it anyhow, knowing I had 2 years ttc with irregular cycles under my belt. Still angry now. AFter 6 months, I discovered the research and switched to lamactil (lamotrigine) which doesnt cause as many problems. This cant fix the pcos though.

Could he possibly switch meds?

 

[pinkflamingo]

He is due to go back and see the neurologist in the next couple of weeks (his epilepsy is a result of a brain tumour) and so his meds will be discussed then. He has not been feeling great for a while, especially when he travels to work and home on the train. He had a fit on the train a few months ago so am not sure how much of it is anxiety and how much is not.
I wish you every luck in TTC. It must have been a difficult time for you what with dealing with your epiliepsy and then having PCOS as a result.
This is a great place to come and chat and learn from people like yourself.
Thank you.
PF x

 

[sparkle83]

let us know how he gets on hon