Eye care during pregnancy

People can sometimes experience vision problems during pregnancy or when undergoing fertility treatment. Changes in your sight and eye health are often related to changes in hormone levels and a normal part of pregnancy or treatment but some symptoms can indicate more serious conditions.

The most common problems include:

Changes to your vision (refractive changes)

It is important to see an optometrist regularly as part of your overall health and wellbeing. You may experience changes in your vision during pregnancy which require a prescription for glasses or a modified one if you already wear spectacles or contact lenses. Book an appointment with your optometrist if you are concerned.

Blurred vision

Blurred vision in pregnancy can occur for a range of reasons including water retention. This can go back to normal after the birth, but it is important to tell your midwife and speak to your optometrist for advice. Many optometrists will offer urgent appointments for patients who exhibit sudden onset of changes to their eyesight such as blurred vision.

Dry eyes

The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can often result in itchy, gritty or stinging sensations in the eyes. It is common for these symptoms to go away after the birth, but it is important that these symptoms are investigated quickly. This way you can get treatment and can and avoid possible long-term damage. Your optometrist will investigate and diagnose the problem and prescribe the necessary treatment.

Changes in eye pressure

Similar to high blood pressure, you can get high pressure in the eye (also called ocular hypertension). If left, it can cause long term problems including an increased risk of glaucoma of the pressure remains too high. Also, if eye pressure falls too low it can cause blurred vision and can cause a detachment of the retina. Pregnancy can cause both of these, for example high pressure can be caused by fluid retention.

It is important to get regular eye checks regardless of whether you are already a spectacle wearer or not. If you are concerned contact your local Optometrist or midwife.

Puffy eyelids

Another condition often experienced during pregnancy, and if receiving fertility treatment, is puffiness around the eyes and eye lids. This is mainly caused by changed hormone levels but many women can experience some sight problems because of this, for example caused by the swelling obstructing part of the eye. Drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet can help with this, but if you are concerned your optometrist can advise.

Pre-eclampsia

Pre-eclampsia is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that causes high blood pressure. Swelling in the hands, legs and feet can be a sign you have pre-eclampsia. Changes in your vision can often be a sign of pre-eclampsia including sensitivity to light, blurred vison, flashing lights or spots, and occasionally temporary sight loss. Pre-eclampsia is a serious condition, for you and your baby. If you experience any of these symptoms you should contact your GP straight away or if you feel it’s urgent go to your local emergency department.

Gestational diabetes

Risk of gestational diabetes increases as you go through your pregnancy. It is important to get your blood sugar levels checked as high levels can harm the blood vessels that connect to your retina, which can result in some vision loss. If you are concerned it is important to speak to your midwife or GP.