IMPACT OF EPILEPSY IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH OF ADOLSCENT GIRLS: AN AYURVEDIC AND MODERN PERSPECTIVE

Introduction: Adolescence is a transitional phase of growth and development between childhood and adulthood. This is a vital stage for both boys and girls. Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder frequently countered during childhood and adolescence. In girls with epilepsy, this adolescence period may be complicated by changes in seizure, severity, frequency around puberty and menarche, menstrual abnormalities, reproductive endocrine disturbance and adverse effects associated with antiepileptic medication. Aim & Objective: To review the available classical Ayurvedic literature and Modern evidence regarding the impact of Epilepsy (Apasmara) and Anti- epileptic medications on puberty, menstruation, reproductive hormones and fertility and pregnancy. Materials and Methods: Relevant literature was reviewed from Ayurvedic text, Modern medicine text, internet, journals and other scientific sources. Result: There is impact of epilepsy and anti-epileptic drug therapy on adolescent girls reproductive health. Adolescent girls with epilepsy may have irregular menstruation, anovulatery cycles, PCOS, infertility and variety of complications in future pregnancy. Conclusion: Epilepsy in adolescent girls should be considered neuro-endocrine context. It requires special attention towards her reproductive functions. Ayurveda describe Artava in relation to female reproductive physiology while reproductive dysfunction considered through concepts such as ArtavaDushti and ArtavaKshya also describe ArtavahaSrotas.