Women's health and cerebral palsy

Frequently asked questions

How can I help manage my periods?

Every woman is different and periods vary widely from one person to another. You might find physically managing menstruation/periods challenging with your disabilities but others can cope well. In extreme cases this can prevent people with disabilities attending school or work during their periods. Some people experience mood changes or your family and carers may be aware of behavioural changes such as temper tantrums, crying spells, depression or being aggressive linked to your menstrual cycle. Sometimes just understanding the link can be really helpful.

In addition you may experience menstrual irregularities especially if you are on certain medications (antiepileptic/ anti-psychotics), rely on tube feeding or if you have a low body weight. Remember any change in your menstrual pattern particularly with bleeding between your periods, after the menopause or after sex can be a symptom of more serious problems, you must see your GP without delay if this happens.

Whatever the issue there are lots of things that may help including different sanitary products, simple painkillers or hormonal medications.

Please discuss any concern with your CP nurse or GP and they can offer advice on management strategies and treatments depending on your personal needs and taking account of any religious, ethnic or cultural needs. Your GP can also refer you on to a specialist team to discuss other options if necessary.

Pregnancy and parenthood

Every woman with or without disability worries about their fertility and pregnancy, always discuss any concerns with your GP, ideally discuss pregnancy before conception the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in case any medications need to be changed. All women are recommended to take folic acid before and during pregnancy, this can be planned with you GP. Never stop medications suddenly without talking to your healthcare team though.

Your midwife will help you develop a personalised care plan to provide a safe and enjoyable experience during your pregnancy, delivery and parenting. If you need care that is more complex your CP nurse, GP or midwife can refer you to a specialist obstetric neurology clinic who can provide specialist care and detailed planning.

What about the menopause?

All women experience different symptoms during peri-menopausal and menopausal times; these can range from mild to severe, living with CP can be difficult without these added issues.

Do not suffer in silence if you have any concerns about menopausal symptoms, please discuss your symptoms with you GP. You may wish to be referred to an NHS menopause clinic to see a specialist doctor or nurse practitioner.