Pregnancy is often a journey filled with excitement, but it can also cause temporary hormonal changes to your eyes and vision. Here are a few vision conditions expectant mothers may experience:
Sudden squinting
Changes in hormone levels can alter the prescription needed in your eyeglasses or contact lenses. Consequently, pregnant women should discuss any vision changes with their eye care professional to determine whether they need a change in prescription.
Dry eyes
Some women experience dry eyes during pregnancy. This condition is usually temporary and may be less noticeable following delivery. Over-the-counter artificial tear drops can lessen the discomfort and are perfectly safe to use while pregnant or nursing. If symptoms persist, an eye doctor can test for other dry eye causes or recommend additional treatments.
Puffy eyelids
Puffiness around the eyes is another common side effect of certain hormonal changes women may have while pregnant. See your eye doctor if this is interfering with peripheral vision.
Migraine headaches
Migraine headaches linked to hormonal changes are very common among pregnant women. In some cases, migraine headaches make eyes feel more sensitive to light and can cause short-term visual sensations. Talk to your OB/GYN if you’re experiencing migraines.
When eye changes signal more serious concerns
Some vision changes in pregnant women, like blurred vision and seeing spots, may be signs of a more serious problem. Discuss them with an eye care or OB/GYN professional immediately.
Also, blurred vision could be a sign of elevated blood sugar levels, which may suggest gestational diabetes. These blood pressure spikes can cause pregnant women to see spots. Unfortunately, excessive blood pressure levels can even lead to retinal detachment.
Whether you have common or more serious symptoms, contact your eye doctor if you have any eye concerns while you’re pregnant.
1. Prevent Blindness America website, “Pregnancy and Your Vision.” http://www.preventblindness.org/pregnancy-and-your-vision
