Vision Changes During Pregnancy: What to Expect and How to Manage Them [Complete Guide 2024]

Ilustration of changes in vision during pregnancy

Why Vision Changes Occur During Pregnancy

Several key factors can affect vision during pregnancy:

1. Hormonal Changes

   Pregnancy hormones such as estrogen and progesterone have wide-ranging effects on the body, including the eyes. These hormones can alter fluid levels in body tissues, including the eyes, which may impact the shape and thickness of the cornea.

2. Fluid Retention

   Increased fluid retention is a common change during pregnancy, which can affect corneal thickness and intraocular pressure. This may cause blurred vision or other changes.

3. Blood Circulation Changes

   Blood volume increases by about 30-50% during pregnancy to support fetal growth. Increased blood pressure can affect the blood vessels in the retina, the back layer of the eye responsible for capturing light and sending signals to the brain.

4. Gestational Diabetes

   Some women develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy, which can affect the blood vessels in the eyes and increase the risk of diabetic retinopathy. This condition can damage the retina if not well managed.

Common Vision Changes During Pregnancy to Watch For

Here are some common vision changes that may be experienced during pregnancy:

1. Blurry or Out-of-Focus Vision

   Blurred vision is one of the most common changes and can be caused by fluid retention affecting corneal thickness. While most cases are not serious, it is important to monitor this condition, especially if blurred vision occurs suddenly or persists for a long time.

2. Dry Eyes

   Hormonal changes can reduce tear production, leading to dry, irritated eyes. Dry eyes may make vision uncomfortable, especially when wearing contact lenses.

3. Sensitivity to Light

   Some women experience increased sensitivity to light during pregnancy, which can cause discomfort and dizziness, especially when outdoors or under bright lights.

4. Decreased Night Vision

   Some women report difficulty seeing clearly at night during pregnancy. This might be related to hormonal changes or pressure on the optic nerve, though the exact cause is not fully understood.

5. Reduced Visual Acuity

   Changes to the cornea may cause slight changes in visual acuity, which could affect the need for glasses or corrective lenses

6. Dark Spots or ‘Floaters’

   Floaters are small dots or spots that appear to float in your field of vision. While common, a significant increase in floaters or accompanied by flashes of light could signal a more serious issue.

Serious Vision-Related Conditions During Pregnancy: When to Seek Medical Attention

Some symptoms may indicate a more serious health issue:

1. Preeclampsia

   Preeclampsia is a serious condition marked by high blood pressure and organ damage, often occurring in the third trimester. Vision-related symptoms of preeclampsia can include blurred vision, flashes of light, or temporary vision loss.

2. Gestational Diabetes and Diabetic Retinopathy

   Gestational diabetes can increase the risk of diabetic retinopathy, which affects the blood vessels in the retina. Symptoms to watch for include blurred vision or loss of visual clarity.

3. Retinal Detachment

   Retinal detachment is a rare but serious condition where the retina separates from its supporting tissue at the back of the eye. Signs to watch for include sudden increases in floaters or flashes of light.

How to Manage Blurry Vision and Eye Issues During Pregnancy

Here are some ways to help manage vision changes during pregnancy:

1. Use Eye Drops for Dry Eyes

   Eye drops can help reduce irritation and make eyes feel more comfortable, especially if you experience dry eyes.

   Recommended Product: See the best eye drops for pregnant women that are safe to use during pregnancy and specially designed to relieve dry eyes.

2. Reduce Exposure to Bright Light

   To reduce light sensitivity, wear sunglasses outdoors or in bright light conditions.

3. Limit Contact Lens Use

   If your eyes feel drier than usual, consider switching to glasses during pregnancy.

4. Schedule Regular Eye Exams

   If you have gestational diabetes or a history of eye disease, schedule regular eye exams to monitor your eye health.

5. Maintain a Healthy Diet

   Consume foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and E, and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which support eye health.

Will Vision Return to Normal After Pregnancy?

Most vision changes that occur during pregnancy are temporary and will return to normal within a few weeks or months after giving birth. However, if your vision remains altered some time postpartum, consider consulting an eye specialist.

FAQs about Vision Changes During Pregnancy

1. Is blurred vision normal during pregnancy?

   Yes, blurred vision is a common vision change during pregnancy, often due to hormonal shifts affecting the cornea.

2. Are vision changes during pregnancy permanent?

   Most vision changes during pregnancy are temporary and will normalize postpartum. However, it’s important to consult an eye doctor if symptoms persist.

3. When should I seek medical help for vision issues during pregnancy?

   If you experience severe blurred vision, a sudden increase in floaters, or flashes of light, it’s best to consult an eye doctor, as these could be signs of a serious medical condition.

Vision changes during pregnancy are common and often harmless, though they should be monitored, especially if symptoms are severe or impact daily activities. By understanding what to expect and how to manage these changes, pregnant women can help protect their eye health and maintain good vision. If there are concerns, consulting a medical professional is highly recommended for safety.