Pink eye, medically known as conjunctivitis, is a common inflammation of the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner eyelid. This condition leads to redness and discomfort. Its contagious nature often raises questions for expectant mothers concerned about their health and their unborn baby’s well-being. While pink eye is generally not serious, understanding its characteristics during pregnancy can alleviate concerns and guide appropriate action.
Understanding Pink Eye During Pregnancy
Pink eye can stem from various causes, with the most common types being viral, bacterial, and allergic. Viral conjunctivitis, often linked to common colds, is highly contagious. Bacterial conjunctivitis may result from direct contact with bacteria, sometimes from improper contact lens use or contaminated hands. Allergic conjunctivitis occurs as an immune response to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander, and unlike infectious types, it is not contagious.
Symptoms of pink eye in pregnant individuals are similar to those in the general population, including redness, irritation, itching, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. Watery, yellow, or green discharge, or crusty buildup along the eyelids, may also occur. Swelling of the eyelids and increased sensitivity to light can also occur.
Risks to the Mother and Baby
For the pregnant mother, pink eye typically causes discomfort and irritation but rarely leads to severe systemic effects or long-term eye damage if addressed promptly. The primary concern during pregnancy relates to the potential for vertical transmission, where certain infections can pass from the mother to the baby during childbirth, leading to neonatal conjunctivitis in the newborn.
The most common pathogens associated with neonatal conjunctivitis include Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Chlamydia trachomatis is a frequent cause; 30% to 40% of infants born to mothers with untreated chlamydial infections may develop conjunctivitis, typically appearing 5 to 14 days after birth. Neisseria gonorrhoeae, while less common in some regions due to routine prophylaxis at birth, can cause a more severe, acute purulent conjunctivitis, usually emerging 2 to 5 days postpartum. Untreated gonococcal conjunctivitis can lead to serious complications such as corneal ulcerations, perforation, and potentially blindness. Chlamydial infection can also cause systemic issues like pneumonitis in infants.
Treatment and Management During Pregnancy
When pink eye occurs during pregnancy, consulting a healthcare provider before using any medications is important. Treatment depends on the underlying cause. For bacterial conjunctivitis, antibiotic eye drops like erythromycin, tobramycin, or gentamicin are generally considered safe and may be prescribed. These can help shorten the infection duration and reduce the risk of spread.
Viral conjunctivitis usually resolves on its own within 7 to 14 days, with supportive care being the main approach. For viral cases, and to manage symptoms of any type of pink eye, home care measures can provide relief. These include applying clean, cool or warm compresses to the eyes several times a day and gently cleaning the eyelids to remove discharge. Non-medicated artificial tears are also safe for moisturizing and soothing irritated eyes during pregnancy. If the pink eye is due to allergies, avoiding the allergen is advised, and your doctor may recommend antihistamine eye drops or oral antihistamines that are safe for pregnancy.
Prevention and When to Seek Medical Advice
Preventing the spread of pink eye involves consistent hygiene practices. Frequent hand washing with soap and water is important, especially after touching the eyes. Avoiding touching the eyes and refraining from sharing personal items such as washcloths, towels, pillowcases, and eye drops can also limit transmission. For those who wear contact lenses, it is advisable to stop wearing them until the condition resolves and to properly clean or replace lenses and cases to prevent reinfection.
Pregnant individuals should seek medical attention for pink eye symptoms, particularly if they experience severe eye pain, changes in vision, extreme redness that does not improve, or worsening symptoms. Immediate consultation is also advised if symptoms persist beyond a week, or if there is concern about a specific type of discharge. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important, especially considering the potential for vertical transmission to the newborn.