Women with epilepsy face different issues than men. The two primary sex hormones in women's bodies, estrogen and progesterone, can affect the frequency and intensity of seizures. Estrogen is an excitatory hormone that increases electrical activity in brain cells, while progesterone is an inhibitory hormone that calms the brain cells. Hormonal fluctuations can increase the risk of seizures, especially during puberty, ovulation, and menopause. Some women experience more seizures at certain stages of their menstrual cycle, known as catamenial epilepsy. Keeping a record of menstrual cycles and seizures and sharing this with a doctor can help manage epilepsy better. Additionally, some anti-seizure medications can cause long-term bone loss, so it is important to discuss ways to prevent osteoporosis with a doctor during menopause.