Dry Eyes During Pregnancy

Drinking plenty of water to prevent dehydration. Using a humidifier to prevent the air from becoming too dry.

Take a fatty acid supplement, such as fish oil or an omega-3 supplement.

Wearing sunglasses outside to minimise sun damage to the eyes trying warm compresses or eyelid massage.

Use preservative-free, lubricating drops & sprays to strengthen your tear film and top-up your tears.

Avoid fans or heaters near or directly on your face, which can worsen your dry eyes.

Avoid using (potential) irritants around your eyes - like lotions and creams. If you use several products - eliminate them one at a time to see which one triggers your dry eye symptoms.

Steroids can help treat some types of eye inflammation. An ophthalmologist may recommend steroid creams (on the eyelids or a set of steroid eye drops. They may also fit removable tear plugs into your tear ducts - which help the tears stay in your eyes for longer.

Pregnancy can lead to temporary changes in vision due to hormonal fluctuations, fluid retention, and increased blood circulation. These factors may cause changes in the shape and thickness of the cornea, resulting in blurry or distorted vision. They can also affect the eye's focusing ability.

Yes, mild vision changes are relatively common during pregnancy and are usually temporary. However, any significant or sudden changes in vision should be discussed with an eye specialist, as they could signal more serious underlying conditions like preeclampsia or gestational diabetes.

Pregnancy impacts eye health in several ways:

• Hormonal fluctuations can cause changes in tear production, leading to dry or irritated eyes.
• Fluid retention can alter the cornea's shape and thickness, causing temporary vision changes.
• Increased blood circulation can cause pressure changes within the eye, leading to temporary or permanent vision changes.

Yes, pregnancy can cause dry eyes due to hormonal changes that affect tear production. Pregnant women may also experience other eye issues, such as:

• Blurry or distorted vision
• Difficulty focusing
• Light sensitivity
• Eye strain or fatigue

For most women, vision changes experienced during pregnancy are temporary and will return to normal after giving birth. However, it's essential to consult with an eye specialist if vision issues persist or worsen after delive

To maintain good eye health during pregnancy, consider the following tips:

• Stay well-hydrated to help prevent dry eyes
• Eat a balanced diet rich in eye-healthy nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, Lutein, and Vitamin A
• Rest your eyes regularly if you experience eye strain or fatigue
• Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays with sunglasses
• Consult with an eye specialist if you have concerns about your vision

It is generally safe to wear contact lenses during pregnancy. However, some women may experience increased discomfort or dryness due to changes in tear production. Using preservative eye drops and sprays will help. If you have concerns about wearing contact lenses while pregnant, consult your eye specialist for advice on alternative options or ways to alleviate discomfort.

Routine eye exams during pregnancy are generally safe and recommended, especially if you have a history of vision problems or have concerns about your eye health. However, elective procedures such as laser eye surgery (LASIK) should be postponed until after pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding can cause temporary vision changes due to hormonal fluctuations and other physiological changes. However, these changes typically resolve once breastfeeding is discontinued.

Yes, certain nutrients and vitamins support eye health during pregnancy and breastfeeding, such as:

• Lutein & Zeaxanthin: Carotenoids that protect the eyes from oxidative stress and blue light
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Supports retinal development and reduce the risk of age-related eye diseases

Yes, your baby's eye health can be affected by your diet during pregnancy and breastfeeding. A well-balanced diet rich in eye-healthy nutrients is crucial for properly developing your baby's vision and overall eye health. Essential nutrients to focus on include:

• Lutein and Zeaxanthin: Carotenoids that protect the eyes from oxidative stress and blue light
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Supports retinal development and reduce the risk of age-related eye diseases
• Vitamin C and E: Antioxidants that help protect the eyes from damage and maintain eye health

To support your baby's eye health and development during pregnancy and breastfeeding, follow these guidelines:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in eye-healthy nutrients, such as vitamin A, Lutein, Zeaxanthin, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, and vitamin E
• Take prenatal vitamins as recommended by your healthcare provider to ensure adequate nutrient intake
• Stay well-hydrated to support overall health, including eye health
• Manage any pre-existing health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, which can affect both your own and your baby's eye health
• Schedule regular prenatal checkups and discuss any concerns about your baby's eye health with your doctor