Understanding Vision Changes During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of significant change for your body, and your eyes are no exception. The hormonal shifts that accompany pregnancy can have various effects on your vision and overall eye health. While many of these changes are temporary and will resolve after childbirth, it’s essential to stay vigilant and informed about your eye care during this time. This post covers what you need to know…

Common Vision Changes During Pregnancy

Here are some of the most common eye-related changes that can occur during pregnancy:

Blurry Vision
Blurry vision during pregnancy can occur for various reasons, including water retention which can alter the shape of your eyes. If you notice sudden changes its worth getting checked by an optometrist to ensure peace of mind.

Dry Eyes
Hormonal fluctuations can reduce tear production, leading to dry, itchy, or uncomfortable eyes. This condition can be particularly bothersome for contact lens wearers. Lubricating eye drops can help alleviate discomfort, but you should get symptoms investigated to avoid possible long-term damage.

Refractive Changes
You might find that your current glasses or contact lenses no longer provide the clear vision they once did. Hormonal changes can cause shifts in your prescription, which is usually temporary but may require a visit to your optometrist to adjust your lenses.

Changes in eye pressure
Just as high blood pressure can affect your overall health, elevated eye pressure—known as ocular hypertension—can lead to long-term issues, including an increased risk of glaucoma if not properly managed. Conversely, low eye pressure can result in blurred vision and, in severe cases, may cause retinal detachment. Pregnancy can trigger both of these conditions.

Swollen eyelids
Puffy or swollen eyelids are another common issue during pregnancy and can also occur during fertility treatments. Hormonal changes are typically to blame, and this swelling can sometimes impact vision, especially if the puffiness obstructs part of the eye. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can help alleviate the swelling.

For any of the above it's important to consult your optometrist if you have any concerns or notice significant changes.

Serious Eye Conditions to Watch For

Pregnancy can also increase the risk of more serious eye conditions, making it vital to be aware of the signs and symptoms.

Pre-eclampsia
Pre-eclampsia is a serious condition characterised by high blood pressure and can be life-threatening for both mother and baby. Vision changes are often an early warning sign of pre-eclampsia, including sensitivity to light, blurred vision, flashing lights, or spots, and in severe cases, temporary vision loss. If you experience any of these symptoms you should contact your GP immediately or visit your local A&E.

Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is another condition that can develop during pregnancy and poses risks to your eye health. Elevated blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in your retina, potentially leading to vision loss. Regular blood sugar monitoring is crucial. If you have concerns, consult your midwife or GP promptly.

Taking Care of Your Eyes During Pregnancy

At Blink, we understand the importance of maintaining eye health throughout every stage of life, including pregnancy. Regular eye check-ups are essential, not only for adjusting your prescription if necessary but also for ensuring that any potential eye health issues are caught early.

If you’re experiencing any changes in your vision during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with us. We’re here to support you through this exciting time and help ensure your eyes stay healthy and comfortable.

Stay proactive about your eye health and enjoy the journey of pregnancy with confidence!

Blink, Bridge of Allan.