An eye examination is safe and often recommended during pregnancy because hormonal and circulatory changes can significantly affect vision and eye health. These physiological shifts may cause temporary changes in eyesight, which an eye doctor can monitor and manage. A comprehensive eye exam also provides a unique view into the body’s vascular system, offering early detection for more serious, pregnancy-related health issues. Informing your eye care provider about your pregnancy is important so the examination can be tailored to your specific needs.
Safety of Examination Procedures
Most standard procedures performed during a comprehensive eye examination are safe for expectant mothers. Standard vision tests, pressure checks, and external evaluations pose no risk to the developing baby. However, the use of certain medications, such as eye drops used to dilate the pupils, requires discussion with your provider.
The drops used for dilation contain a small concentration of medication, and the risk of systemic absorption is considered very low. To minimize potential absorption, the eye doctor may suggest closing your eyes for a short period after the drops are administered. Some providers may choose to avoid or minimize dilation in the first trimester, or if the exam does not indicate a medical necessity to view the retina. Informing your doctor about your pregnancy status ensures they avoid potentially harmful medications or procedures.
Temporary Vision Changes Caused by Pregnancy
Hormonal fluctuations and increased fluid retention are the primary reasons many pregnant people experience temporary alterations in vision. Increased water retention, which often causes swelling in the hands and feet, can also affect the eyes. Fluid accumulation can temporarily change the shape and thickness of the cornea, the transparent front surface of the eye.
These corneal changes may lead to a mild shift in refractive error, often causing a slight increase in nearsightedness. This effect is temporary and tends to resolve following delivery. Another common change is decreased tear production due to hormonal shifts, resulting in dry eye syndrome. Reduced tear film quality can cause irritation, a gritty sensation, and make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable.
When Vision Symptoms Signal a Serious Health Concern
While most vision changes in pregnancy are harmless, certain symptoms signal a systemic health issue requiring immediate medical attention. Sudden, severe vision disturbances should be reported to both your eye doctor and obstetrician immediately. These disturbances include flashing lights, an increase in floaters, partial vision loss, or double vision. These symptoms can be associated with pre-eclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine.
Vision changes from pre-eclampsia, which affects up to 8% of pregnancies, can include light sensitivity, blurred vision, or seeing spots. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can cause vascular changes in the retina and, in severe cases, lead to retinal swelling or detachment. Uncontrolled gestational diabetes can also cause vision changes, such as blurring, by affecting the lens and the tiny blood vessels in the retina. Monitoring these symptoms is important, as vision problems can be among the first signs of these serious conditions.
Timing Your Prescription Update
Because vision changes experienced during pregnancy are often temporary, eye doctors generally advise against updating permanent glasses or contact lens prescriptions. The goal is to wait for hormone levels to stabilize after delivery before prescribing new corrective lenses. This waiting period ensures the new prescription will be accurate and lasting.
If vision changes are significant enough to interfere with daily life, your eye doctor may issue a temporary prescription. For the most accurate and stable prescription, it is recommended to wait approximately eight weeks postpartum. This allows the cornea to return to its pre-pregnancy shape, ensuring that any new lenses purchased will be correct.