How your vision can change during pregnancy

It’s inevitable that you will experience hormonal changes during and post-pregnancy, but did you know that your vision can also be impaired as a result of hormonal changes during pregnancy? It can make you sensitive to light, give you headaches and for people who have pre-existing conditions such as  such as glaucoma, your symptoms could worsen during pregnancy.

No need to stress too much though. It’s actually quite common for women to experience changes in their vision during the time they are pregnant. While it’s not something that usually occurs as soon as you fall pregnant, some soon-to-be mums may experience eye problems at some stage of their pregnancy.

To put your mind at ease, we asked Specsavers Optometrist Greeshma Patel to shed more light on pregnancy eyesight and distorted vision during pregnancy.  

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Can pregnancy affect your eyesight?

Well, yes. As we mentioned, hormonal changes contribute to this, and Greeshma informs us that the fluctuations in hormonal levels can lead to dry eyes, blurred or distorted vision as well as spots and floaters. She assures us that “they will disappear as quickly as they appeared after childbirth. However, it’s always important to visit your optometrist in case these are symptoms of something other than hormonal changes.”

Is it dangerous?

Most eye problems are temporary and as mentioned, are linked to hormonal changes or fluid retention. However, it’s always better to be on the safer side. Greeshma advises that if you do find you are experiencing eye problems, it’s always best to see your GP or an optometrist right away as these could also be indications of something more serious, “for example, blurry vision could be a sign of gestational diabetes or preeclampsia.” (which is caused by high blood pressure)

Does blurred or ‘pregnancy eyesight’ affect all women?

“No. Just like all symptoms of pregnancy, there isn’t a one size fits all” says Greeshma. “Some women may experience problems with their eyes and others may not – just like how some women may experience morning sickness and others may not.”

Is there anything you can do to prevent blurred or impaired vision when you’re pregnant?

Greeshma tells us that unfortunately there’s not much we can do to prevent disturbed vision while pregnant. We just need to be aware of it and make sure you get the best help possible right away. She also suggests it may be a good idea to have a friend or family on hand to “assist with driving until your vision goes back to normal.”

What can you do to treat it?

“Depending on what you’re experiencing, there may be treatments that can help you. They could range from changing lifestyle and diet to medication” she explains. Greeshma reiterates that it’s always best to speak to your optometrist and GP to find out the best options for your situation.

Another thing Greeshma suggests taking a note of, is your family history. If eye problems are something you know run in your family, then its best to let your know GP know as many eye conditions can be passed on from generation to generation.

While Greeshma gives some very useful advice, your first port of call should you experience any of these symptoms, should always be your own, regular GP and optometrist.

Have you or anyone you know of experienced blurry vision or any eye issues during their pregnancy?