In this article:
What Does Blurry Vision During Pregnancy Mean?
Blurry vision means your eyesight may not remain as sharp as it was before pregnancy. You may notice the following problems with your vision.- Trouble focusing on objects
- Feeling like your vision is cloudy or hazy
- Need to squint to see clearly
Why Does Blurry Vision Happen When You’re Pregnant?
You may experience blurry vision during pregnancy due to various changes happening in your body.1. Hormonal Changes
Pregnancy hormones like progesterone and oestrogen affect many parts of your body. They are also responsible for making the changes in your eyes.- Thickening of the cornea (the clear front part of the eye).
- Your eyes may feel dry because of the changes in tear production.
2. Fluid Retention
Your body tends to retain more fluid during pregnancy, which can cause swelling in your hands, feet or face. The same fluid also gets collected in your eyes, leading to slight changes in shape and affecting your vision.3. Changes in Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar
Temporary vision changes also occur when you have high blood pressure (hypertension) or a complication caused by it during pregnancy, called preeclampsia.If you have gestational diabetes, changes in blood sugar levels can cause swelling in your eye lens, leading to blurry vision.
4. Eye Dryness
Pregnancy can also make your eyes feel dry as tear production reduces. It can be uncomfortable, which makes the vision blurry.5. Less Common but Serious Causes
Blurry vision may indicate something else in very rare cases.- Retinal changes caused by very high blood pressure.
- Severe preeclampsia or eclampsia, a medical emergency which requires immediate treatment.
- Gestational diabetes is not under control.
When Should You Worry About Blurry Vision?
Blurry vision is harmless during pregnancy. In rare cases, it may be due to a severe condition with the following symptoms, which cannot be ignored.- Sudden or severe blurriness
- Double vision
- Eye pain or flashes of light
- Persistent headaches
- Swelling in your face, hands, or feet, along with vision changes
How Can You Take Care of Blurry Vision During Pregnancy?
You may not be able to prevent blurry vision, but you can manage it with simple steps.Practical Tips for Relief:
- Take breaks from screens and reading to rest your eyes.
- Keep yourself hydrated by drinking enough water to balance the fluid in your body.
- Consult an eye doctor for drops to ease dryness.
- Contacts may feel uncomfortable during pregnancy, so wear glasses.
- Read or work in a room with good ambient lighting to avoid straining your eyes.
Checklist: What to Do Next
- If you experience mild blurriness in your vision, you can monitor and rest.
- Visit your doctor if you experience headaches, swelling, or high blood pressure along with vision changes.
Will Your Vision Return to Normal After Pregnancy?
Pregnancy causes temporary vision changes, which improve for most women after they deliver the baby. It can also take time for your vision to become normal again if you choose to breastfeed. You can consult an eye doctor if your vision problems continue long after delivery.Emotional & Lifestyle Aspects You Should Remember
Blurry vision can be unsettling when you are already experiencing so many changes. It can make you anxious and worry about your baby’s safety, so remember the following points.- Many women experience blurry vision during pregnancy.
- Discussing the symptoms with your doctor can reduce anxiety.
- Ask for support from your partner or family if vision problems make daily tasks harder.
- Stay informed to protect your mental health and avoid being stressed.
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FAQs on Why Some Women See Blurry Vision During Pregnancy?
- Is blurry vision during pregnancy normal?
You may experience blurry vision due to hormonal and physical changes. Most cases are harmless, but you should report any sudden or severe changes to your doctor. - Can pregnancy permanently damage your eyesight?
Your vision becomes normal after delivery, but gestational diabetes or preeclampsia may lead to long-term damage if you leave them untreated. - Should you get new glasses or contact lenses during pregnancy?
It is better to wait until after pregnancy and breastfeeding to update your prescription, as your vision may keep changing temporarily.