Pregnancy and Eye Health: What Moms-to-Be Should Know
A recent survey by the American Optometric Association (AOA) revealed that seeing their newborn for the first time is the top milestone for many mothers during pregnancy and the early days of motherhood. However, many moms-to-be may not realize that pregnancy can bring about hormonal changes that affect vision. Common eye changes during pregnancy include dry eyes, puffiness around the eyes, and light sensitivity.
Fortunately, most of these changes are temporary and usually return to normal after delivery. It’s important for women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant to keep their eye doctor informed about their overall health. This includes letting us know about any pre-existing conditions, like glaucoma, high blood pressure, or diabetes, so we can closely monitor any changes in their vision during this exciting time.
Vision Changes to Watch For
While most pregnancy-related vision changes are mild and temporary, certain symptoms can be more serious. For example, blurred vision or increased sensitivity to light may be signs of preeclampsia or gestational diabetes. Preeclampsia, a condition caused by high blood pressure, and gestational diabetes, a temporary form of diabetes, both carry risks for eye health. Gestational diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the retina, potentially leading to vision problems.
If blurred vision occurs, it could be an indicator of high blood sugar levels, and it’s important to contact your optometrist right away. Women with pre-existing type 1 or type 2 diabetes may also be at higher risk for diabetic retinopathy, which could worsen during pregnancy.
Tips for Managing Common Pregnancy Eye Issues
For women experiencing dry eyes during pregnancy, lubricating or rewetting eye drops are a safe and effective solution. These drops can provide relief and are generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Puffy eyes, another common symptom, can sometimes interfere with side vision. Staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet low in sodium and caffeine, and avoiding excess salt can help reduce water retention and alleviate some discomfort.
Migraine headaches, which can increase light sensitivity, are also frequent during pregnancy. Wearing sunglasses with a mirror coating to reduce glare can help minimize discomfort. However, if a pregnant woman is experiencing frequent migraines, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medications, whether prescription or over-the-counter.
The Importance of Regular Eye Exams
No matter how minor the change in eyesight, it’s important for pregnant women to keep their eye doctor informed. A comprehensive eye exam, conducted regularly during pregnancy, is key to detecting any underlying conditions that may not have obvious symptoms. Monitoring eye health is an essential part of ensuring the well-being of both the mother and baby throughout the pregnancy.
By staying proactive and keeping their eye doctor in the loop, expectant mothers can enjoy a healthy pregnancy with clear vision every step of the way.
