Which nurse response best addresses concern about seizures during the menstrual period?

• A. "You are concerned about having a seizure when you start your period."
• B. "Are you currently taking any type of birth control pill or using the patch?"
• C. "Your menstrual cycle can cause seizure activity due to hormone levels."
• D. "The menstrual cycle does not usually affect your seizure activity."

Answer: (C)

Seizure activity can be influenced by hormones, and for some people there’s a pattern of seizures occurring more around certain parts of the menstrual cycle. Estrogen can increase brain excitability, while progesterone (and its metabolite) tends to have a calming effect by enhancing GABAergic inhibition. When hormone levels shift during the cycle—particularly around menses—the balance can tip so that seizure threshold changes. The nurse’s statement directly acknowledges this link and gives the patient a clear, accurate explanation: the menstrual cycle can cause seizure activity due to hormone levels. This helps the patient understand why seizures might vary month to month. If needed, the patient can track seizure timing in relation to the cycle and discuss with a neurologist whether any adjustments to treatment or hormonal management are appropriate.