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The electroencephalogram during normal third trimester pregnancy and six months postpartum
R W Keunen1, J H Vliegen, D A van der Pol
1Department of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, Leyenburg Hospital, The Hague, The Netherlands.
British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
|February 1, 1997
Summary
Electroencephalogram (EEG) changes during pregnancy are not subtle. Spectral analysis found no EEG differences between late pregnancy and postpartum, suggesting observed changes may indicate underlying neurological issues.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurophysiology
Background:
- Previous research in 1942 suggested electroencephalogram (EEG) slowing during late pregnancy.
- This finding remained the sole report on EEG modifications in normal pregnancy for decades.
- The clinical relevance of these reported EEG changes has been largely unaddressed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and objectively analyze electroencephalogram (EEG) modifications during the third trimester of pregnancy.
- To compare EEG patterns in late pregnancy with those in the postpartum period.
- To determine if previously observed EEG changes are clinically significant.
Main Methods:
- Utilized spectral multichannel electroencephalogram (EEG) analysis.
- Compared EEG data from women in their third trimester of pregnancy.
- Compared EEG data from the same women six months after delivery.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were detected in spectral multichannel EEG analysis between the third trimester of pregnancy and six months postpartum.
- The study did not replicate the EEG slowing described by Gibbs and Reid in 1942.
- This suggests that previously noted 'subtle changes' may not be inherent to normal pregnancy.
Conclusions:
- Observed EEG alterations during pregnancy may not be normal physiological adaptations.
- These EEG changes could indicate pre-existing neurological dysfunction.
- Pregnancy-related EEG abnormalities warrant further investigation for potential clinical significance and underlying disorders.