Pregnancy comes with a long list of changes—your body, hormones, mood, and yes, even your vision. If you’re an expecting mother, you might notice your eyes feel dry, blurry, or irritated. Some of these changes are completely normal, but others might need a closer look. In this post, we’ll walk you through the vision changes that often happen during pregnancy, explain which symptoms are common, and highlight when to seek advice from your optometrist. Let’s get you the clarity and comfort you need for your eyes while you’re busy growing that little one!
Common Vision Changes During Pregnancy
Hormonal shifts during pregnancy affect nearly every part of your body—including your eyes. It’s common to experience temporary vision changes, especially in the first and third trimesters. Here’s what you might notice:
Pregnancy and Blurry Vision
Blurry vision is one of the most common complaints during pregnancy. Increased blood volume and hormonal fluctuations can alter the shape of your cornea, making it harder for your eyes to focus. For many women, this isn’t something to worry about, as the changes often improve after childbirth.
Dry Eyes and Pregnancy
During pregnancy, your body produces more progesterone, which can reduce tear production and lead to dry, scratchy eyes. This can feel uncomfortable, especially if you spend long hours looking at a screen or driving.
Sensitivity to Light
Pregnant women might find their eyes are more sensitive to light, a condition known as photophobia. This can occur due to hormonal shifts and fluid retention around the eyes. You may notice more discomfort when moving from dark to light areas, or while outdoors in direct sunlight.
Changes in Your Glasses Prescription
The fluid retention in your eyes could temporarily alter your prescription needs, which is why many pregnant women report that their glasses feel off. However, this is usually a temporary shift and often returns to normal after delivery.
Pregnancy-Related Eye Discomfort
It’s not just the blurry vision; many expecting mothers experience discomfort related to their eyes. This can include:
- Itchy or Watery Eyes: Changes in hormones can make your eyes more prone to irritation.
- Increased Sensitivity to Contact Lenses: Hormonal changes and fluid retention can make contacts feel uncomfortable, dry, or less fitting.
- Eye Strain: As your body adjusts, you might find it harder to focus on close objects, leading to eye strain and headaches, especially with screen time.
If these discomforts persist or become too bothersome, speak to your optometrist about possible solutions, such as lubricating eye drops, temporary prescription changes, or other treatments.
Vision Problems in Pregnancy You Should Be Concerned About
While most pregnancy-related vision changes are harmless and temporary, there are some symptoms that could signal a more serious issue. Here’s when you should seek medical advice:
Pregnancy and High Blood Pressure (Pre-eclampsia)
High blood pressure during pregnancy can lead to a condition called pre-eclampsia, which may cause sudden vision loss or blurry vision. If you experience sudden swelling, visual disturbances, or floaters, get immediate medical help. Pre-eclampsia needs urgent care and could affect both your health and the baby’s.
Gestational Diabetes and Vision Changes
Gestational diabetes can cause fluid shifts in your eyes, affecting your vision. In some cases, this may lead to blurry vision or even changes in the shape of the lens. If you’re diagnosed with gestational diabetes, regular eye exams during pregnancy are essential to monitor for any vision complications.
Retinal Detachment
Though extremely rare, retinal detachment can occur during pregnancy. Symptoms include sudden flashes of light, a dark shadow in your vision, or a sudden decrease in vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention as retinal detachment requires surgery to prevent permanent vision loss.
How to Take Care of Your Eyes During Pregnancy
Taking care of your eye health during pregnancy is simple when you know what to look for. Here are some tips to maintain comfortable, healthy eyes:
Stay Hydrated
Keeping your body hydrated helps maintain the moisture in your eyes, reducing the risk of dry eyes.
Practice the 20-20-20 Rule
To combat eye strain, especially if you’re working on a computer or phone, take breaks every 20 minutes. Look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Use Lubricating Eye Drops
If dry eyes are bothering you, talk to your optometrist about safe eye drops to help keep your eyes moisturized and comfortable during pregnancy.
Protect Your Eyes from UV Light
Wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection whenever you’re outside, especially if you’re sensitive to light or find it hard to focus in bright environments.
Get Regular Eye Exams
If you notice persistent changes, visit your optometrist for a comprehensive eye exam. Regular exams can help catch any serious conditions early, ensuring your vision stays healthy throughout your pregnancy.
When Should You See an Eye Doctor?
While most pregnancy-related vision changes are temporary and harmless, it’s essential to monitor your symptoms. If you notice any of the following, make an appointment with your optometrist or healthcare provider:
- Sudden blurry vision or vision loss
- Severe eye pain or sensitivity to light
- Floaters or flashes of light
- Sudden or worsening headaches with visual disturbances
- Trouble seeing clearly after adjusting your prescription
Protecting Your Vision During Pregnancy: Next Steps
Pregnancy is a time of beautiful changes, but some of those changes affect your vision. Knowing what’s normal and when to be concerned gives you peace of mind and ensures that you’re taking the best care of yourself and your growing baby. At LMC Optometry & Eye Care, we’re here to guide you through any concerns about your vision and help you navigate eye health during this special time.
Ready to take control of your eye health? Book an appointment today to ensure your eyes stay healthy and comfortable throughout your pregnancy.
