Pregnancy brings about numerous physiological changes, and vision can be affected. While many changes are temporary, some vision shifts may indicate more serious underlying health conditions. Understanding these potential changes is helpful for expectant individuals.
Typical Ocular Changes During Pregnancy
Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can impact the eyes. Increased levels of hormones like progesterone can lead to fluid retention, including in the eyes. This can cause subtle changes in the shape and thickness of the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. These corneal changes may result in mild blurriness or a slight shift in vision.
Dry eyes are a common occurrence, manifesting as a gritty feeling, stinging, or irritation. Pregnancy hormones can reduce tear production and alter tear composition, affecting the eye’s natural lubrication. This can make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable or difficult. Increased sensitivity to light is also reported, linked to hormonal changes. These typical vision changes are temporary and resolve within weeks or months after childbirth.
When Vision Changes Signal Deeper Concerns
While many vision changes are benign, some symptoms warrant immediate medical attention as they signal serious pregnancy complications. Preeclampsia, characterized by high blood pressure and often protein in the urine, can lead to various vision disturbances. These may include sudden blurred vision, double vision, flashes of light, auras, or temporary vision loss. Such symptoms indicate the condition may be affecting the brain or blood vessels in the eyes.
Gestational diabetes, a type of diabetes developing during pregnancy, can also impact vision. High blood sugar levels can cause the eye’s lens to swell, leading to fluctuating or blurred vision. Pregnant individuals with pre-existing diabetes, or gestational diabetes, are at higher risk for diabetic retinopathy, a condition where high blood sugar damages small blood vessels in the retina. This can lead to bleeding or fluid leakage in the retina, causing significant vision loss. Any sudden or severe vision changes should prompt consultation with a healthcare provider to rule out these serious conditions.
Managing Vision During and After Pregnancy
Managing vision changes during pregnancy involves supportive measures. Maintaining good hydration and using lubricating eye drops, particularly preservative-free ones, can alleviate dry eye symptoms. Taking breaks from screens and being mindful of airflow from fans can also reduce eye dryness. If contact lenses become uncomfortable due to corneal changes or dryness, temporarily switching to eyeglasses can provide relief.
Regular eye check-ups are important during pregnancy, especially if new or concerning symptoms arise. It is advised to avoid getting a new prescription for glasses or contact lenses during pregnancy, as most vision changes are temporary. Vision typically returns to its pre-pregnancy state within weeks to months after delivery, once hormone levels stabilize. For elective eye procedures like LASIK, it is recommended to wait until after pregnancy and breastfeeding. This waiting period allows hormonal changes to subside, ensuring the eye’s prescription and corneal stability for optimal surgical outcomes and to avoid medication exposure to the baby.