Pregnancy and Vision: Unexpected Changes During Pregnancy

Most women who are considering pregnancy know that they can expect their bodies to change in many ways, but few are aware that hormonal changes and fluid retention may also affect their vision as well. Refractive changes, dry eyes, and limited peripheral vision are all common and usually temporary conditions the expectant mother may experience, but some changes may indicate more serious conditions.

Refractive changes in your eyes may make the glasses or contact lenses you have been wearing less effective. These changes are usually temporary and nothing to worry about. Your vision may return to its pre-pregnancy state, so wait a few weeks after delivery before investing in new eyewear or contacts.

Dry eyes are often a temporary side effect of pregnancy and can be relieved with lubricating drops or ointments. Contact lens wearers may find their lenses uncomfortable and may use rewetting drops, wear their contacts for shorter periods of time, or switch to glasses. The corneas may also thicken during pregnancy and add to the discomfort of contact lens wearers. A woman who wears contact lenses and doesn't have a pair of glasses may want to get a pair if she is contemplating pregnancy, so she doesn't have to wait to have them made when she finds she needs them.

Puffy eyelids are the result of water retention during the pregnancy and can interfere with your side vision. Instead of limiting your water intake, try to reduce your sodium and caffeine intake, which promote water retention. The puffiness may be reduced with cool compresses for temporary relief.

Migraine headaches are common in pregnant women and can make your eyes sensitive to light. Consult with your doctor before taking any over-the-counter or prescription migraine medications.

Blurred vision and seeing spots can be signs of more serious problems. Blurred vision may indicate high blood sugar levels and diabetes, or a rise in blood pressure which may signal preeclampsia. High blood pressure can also cause spots in front of the eyes or a detached retina. Signs of a detached retina are "floaters" or a gray veil that moves across your field of vision. It can cause blindness if left untreated. Tunnel vision, a loss of peripheral vision, may be the result of a rare tumor that secretes hormones. See your doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.

Women who are using medication to treat glaucoma should consult with their doctor before becoming pregnant. There is some concern of fetal risk from glaucoma medications during the first trimester. Depending on how advanced the disease is, your doctor must weigh the risks of the removing the mother from medication against the potential risks to the fetus. Surgery is a viable option in some cases and poses little risk to the fetus. There are no special problems relating to labor and delivery, but it may be best for the mother not to breastfeed her baby if she must continue on her medication.

Inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or glaucoma before you become pregnant so you may be monitored for any changes in your vision.