Pregnancy can cause a myriad of effects on the eyes due to the hormonal changes that occur. Below are a list of ways in which pregnancy hormones can unleash their impact on the eyes:
Dehydrated Eyes: Certain expectant individuals may undergo an increase in dry eye symptoms during pregnancy. Hormonal changes can mess with the quantity and quality of tears, inducing dryness, itching, redness, and an abrasive sensation in the eyes.
Visionary Transformations: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can briefly change one’s vision. Some individuals may discern blurred vision or alterations in prescription during pregnancy. These changes are usually mild and transient, vanishing postpartum or after breastfeeding.
Elevated Light Sensitivity: Pregnant individuals may encounter an upsurge in susceptibility to luminosity or glare due to hormonal shifts. This can cause discomfort or difficulties in adjusting to lighting.
Contact Lens Incompatibility: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can meddle with the shape and thickness of the cornea, which is the translucent front surface of the eye. This can cause amplified intolerance towards contact lenses, inducing discomfort, dryness, or a modification in contact lens prescription.
It is important to acknowledge that these ocular effects during pregnancy are typically temporary, disappearing after childbirth or breastfeeding. Should you undergo any momentous or enduring changes in vision, discomfort, or ocular-related symptoms during pregnancy, it is advised to seek help from an optometrist who can provide appropriate guidance, address any ocular difficulties, and guarantee the general health and well-being of both you and your child.
