By Shannon Bussnick, LSW
Pregnancy is a time of incredible transformation, affecting nearly every part of your body. While many are familiar with the more common symptoms like morning sickness and cravings, vision changes are also a notable but lesser-known aspect of pregnancy.
If you’ve found yourself wondering, “Are vision changes normal during pregnancy?” you’re not alone. Let’s see why these changes occur, what they might signify, and how to manage them.
Causes of Vision Changes During Pregnancy
Fluid Retention and Hormonal Shifts
One of the primary reasons for vision changes during pregnancy is fluid retention. Increased fluid can alter the shape and thickness of the cornea, leading to blurred vision. Hormonal changes, particularly an increase in estrogen and progesterone, can also affect the production of tears, causing dryness and discomfort.
Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Levels
Vision changes can also be linked to fluctuating blood pressure and blood sugar levels. High blood pressure can lead to swelling in the tiny blood vessels in the eyes, while changes in blood sugar levels, common in gestational diabetes, can cause the lens of the eye to swell and alter vision.
What Vision Changes Can Signify
Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine, can cause significant vision changes. Symptoms may include seeing spots or floaters, blurred vision, or even temporary loss of vision. It’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately if you experience these symptoms.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes can lead to changes in vision due to fluctuating blood sugar levels. These changes can cause the lens to swell, resulting in blurred vision. Monitoring and managing blood sugar levels is essential to minimize these effects.
How Common Are Vision Changes During Pregnancy?
Vision changes during pregnancy are relatively common:
According to the American Optometric Association, around 15% of pregnant women experience some form of vision alteration.
While these changes are often temporary, it’s essential to monitor them and consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Managing Vision Changes: What You Can Do
Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Healthy Diet
Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy diet can help manage fluid retention and stabilize blood sugar levels. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports overall eye health.
Monitor Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Levels
Regularly monitoring blood pressure and blood sugar levels can help detect and manage conditions like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for maintaining these levels within a healthy range.
Use Lubricating Eye Drops
If dryness is a concern, lubricating eye drops can provide relief. However, consult with your healthcare provider before using any over-the-counter medications during pregnancy.
Get Regular Eye Exams
It’s crucial to have regular eye exams during pregnancy, especially if you experience significant vision changes. An eye care professional can help determine if these changes are due to pregnancy or if they indicate a more serious condition.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you experience sudden or severe vision changes, such as seeing spots, floaters, or flashes of light, or if you have blurred vision that doesn’t improve with rest and hydration, seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms can indicate serious conditions like preeclampsia or retinal detachment.
Post-Pregnancy Vision Care
Most vision changes during pregnancy are temporary and should resolve within a few months postpartum.
However, if vision problems persist, schedule an eye exam to determine if you need new glasses to see safely or other treatments.
Waiting Period for Eye Exams
Many experts recommend waiting at least six weeks postpartum before getting a comprehensive eye exam. Doctors of optometry even recommend waiting six to nine months before changing a prescription. This period allows your body and vision to stabilize after pregnancy and childbirth.
However, if vision changes are affecting everyday functioning, a temporary prescription change may be needed.
Conclusion
Vision changes during pregnancy can be unsettling, but they’re often a normal part of the journey. Understanding the causes, recognizing the signs of potential complications, and knowing when to seek medical attention can help you manage these changes effectively. Remember to maintain regular eye care and consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
References
• American Optometric Association. (2021). Pregnancy and Vision: What to Expect. Retrieved from aoa.org.
• WebMD. (2021). Vision Changes During Pregnancy. Retrieved from webmd.com.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Gestational Diabetes and Pregnancy. Retrieved from cdc.gov.
Vienna Lane 
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