Hi Kate,
I haven't specifically seen statistics for Keppra, many many AEDs increase the incidence of birth defects. Keep in mind that birth defects include all defects, so not all occurrences are really severe. I was particularly interested in depakote, as that is what works for Megan's seizures. I think the average incidence of birth defects is 3 in 100 births, while it doubles to 6 in 100 to those taking Depakote. A recent study also showed that Depakote lowered IQ an average of 10 points in children born to mothers on the drug. I would see what information you can find specifically on Keppra, as different drugs carry different levels of risk. One's inclination might be to go off of AEDs during a pregnancy, but everything I have heard indicates that having seizures isn't good for the baby, either, and that staying on meds is recommended.
The birth defects that tend to occur are often related to the CNS (central nervous system), so it is important to take folic acid supplements even when you aren't actually trying to get pregnant, "just in case." Folic acid helps to protect against CNS defects.
Keep in mind that the majority of babies born to mothers with epilepsy will be perfectly normal and healthy. I know that there are many mothers with epilepsy on this list whose children are just fine. I believe there is a slightly increased incidence of epilepsy in children whose mothers have epilepsy, but I don't think that the incidence is any greater than having epilepsy in some other member of the family, like the father....
Best wishes,
Tammy
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