It is not only your body that changes during pregnancy. Your vision can also change while you’re carrying a child. Some of these changes are temporary, while others are permanent. Fortunately, there are several measures you can take to protect your sight, such as getting an eye exam regularly.
Continue reading to learn more about what pregnancy can do to your vision.
How Pregnancy Affects Your Vision
Dry Eyes
Pregnancy can decrease the production of tears, leading to dry eyes. As a result, your eyes can feel irritated and uncomfortable.
Blurred Vision
During pregnancy, the hormones relaxin and progesterone can cause the ligaments in your eyeballs to loosen, resulting in blurred vision.
Fluctuating Refractive Error
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also cause fluctuations in your eye prescription. It can lead to temporary nearsightedness or farsightedness, meaning you might need new eyeglasses.
Light Sensitivity
Many pregnant women experience increased light sensitivity due to increased melanin production. It is a pigment that helps protect the skin from UV rays. Elevated melanin levels can make your eyes more sensitive to bright light and glare.
Changes in Your Eyes During Pregnancy
The appearance of your eyes might change during pregnancy. It’s common to see dark bags under your eyes due to increased blood flow. Unfortunately, more blood volume also means fluid retention, causing puffy lids and eye redness.
How to Care for Your Vision
Wearing sunglasses is vital whether you’re pregnant or not. It can help reduce the amount of light that enters your eyes and protect them from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays. Also, don’t forget to drink plenty of water to avoid dry eyes.
Does your job involve using a computer? If so, take frequent breaks. Following the 20-20-20 rule will save you from digital eye strain symptoms. It’s where you look 20 feet away from the screen every 20 minutes for 20 seconds.
If you’re pregnant and experiencing changes in your vision, see your eye doctor immediately. At Vienna Eyecare Center, our experienced optometrists can help you protect your eyes during pregnancy and beyond. We offer eyeglasses, contact lenses, and more! Call us at (703) 938-7633, or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving patients in Vienna, Reston and McLean, VA, and nearby communities.
