Is it normal for colours to look different only in the third trimester?

Most women notice colour changes become more obvious in the second or third trimester of pregnancy because the hormones change the most during this period.

Can gestational diabetes affect colour perception?

High blood sugar levels may change the way you see colours, but managing your glucose levels can help restore your vision.

When should I worry about changes in my vision during pregnancy?

If the vision changes are sudden, painful, or you see flashes of light, it can indicate a severe problem, which requires urgent medical care.

Why Colours May Appear Brighter or Faded During Pregnancy

You may feel prepared to undergo the physical changes in your body during pregnancy. But what about the invisible changes that happen inside your body? They can be surprising because you do not expect them at all. If you are noticing that colours appear brighter or duller, it is due to hormonal changes during pregnancy. You do not have to worry about it, as it is a normal situation. You can keep observing for any unusual changes in your vision to seek medical care on time.

How Can Pregnancy Affect Your Vision and Colour Perception?

Your hormones can fluctuate significantly during pregnancy, as oestrogen and progesterone levels rise to support your baby. These hormones may also affect your blood vessels in the eye, tear production and the way your brain processes visual cues.

High oestrogen can change the fluid in your eyes, which may affect how you see contrast and brightness.
Progesterone levels may impact your retina, which is responsible for detecting light and colour.
Rising or decreasing blood sugar may change how you see colour temporarily if you experience gestational diabetes.

Why Do Some Colours Appear Brighter?

You may notice tones of reds, blues, and yellows appear more vivid than others. It is due to increased blood flow and hormonal changes that make your eyes sensitive to light. Your retina may pick up these colours with more intensity than before.

Why Might Colours Seem Faded or Dull?

It is not necessary to see colours brighter. You may see some colours appear duller because of the following reasons.

Dry eyes: During pregnancy, the hormonal changes can reduce tear production, leading to blurry vision.
Mild swelling in the cornea: Fluid retention can change the shape of your cornea slightly and change how light enters your eyes.
Fatigue or stress: Physical and emotional stress may temporarily dull your senses, and your vision is no different.

These changes are temporary and resolve on their own after pregnancy, as the hormones go back to normal levels in most cases.

Are These Changes Permanent?

Your vision changes only during pregnancy, which can be relieving. The hormones stabilise after pregnancy, and you can perceive colours normally. However, the following signs indicate that you need medical care urgently.

Sudden vision loss
Flashes of light
Severe blurriness
Eye pain.

Your doctor can check your vision to rule out severe problems, such as preeclampsia or retinal issues.

How Common Are These Changes?

Research shows that up to 60% of women experience vision changes during their pregnancy, but not all of them see the differences in colours. They are mild and may feel more obvious in the second and third trimesters, when the hormone changes are at the peak levels.

Practical Tips to Manage Visual Changes

You can take measures to protect your eyes despite these normal changes.

Regular eye check-ups: Schedule at least one eye exam during pregnancy. Your prescription may need a slight adjustment if you wear glasses.
Stay hydrated: Adequate water intake helps reduce dryness and swelling in your eyes.
Use artificial tears: Lubricating drops can relieve dryness and improve clarity.
Wear sunglasses outdoors: Sunglasses can help avoid the glare in your eyes, which may reduce the increased colour sensitivity.
Rest: Your vision suffers from lack of sleep, so take rest.

Emotional and Social Aspects

Experiencing changes in how you see colours may affect your daily life, but it is only for a temporary period. You may feel disoriented due to bright colours, or you may see things unclear. Although these are normal changes, they can still impact your mental health without support. You can talk to your partner, family or friends to ease your mind and improve your emotional health.

When to Seek Medical Advice?

Visit your doctor if you experience any of the signs listed below.

Sudden or severe changes in colour vision
Persistent blurriness
Eye pain or redness
Flashes of light or floaters

Your doctor can rule out severe problems, such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, or preeclampsia, which can affect your vision.

Quick Checklist: What to Do Next?

Schedule an appointment for an eye checkup if you notice significant changes.
Drink sufficient water and rest well.
Use protective eyewear outdoors.
Keep a record of vision changes for your doctor.
Discuss any emotional stress with your spouse, family or friends.

You may see some colours appear too bright, while others appear too dull, which can make you doubt your vision. These changes are not something you may expect during pregnancy, but it is normal for some to experience them. Most cases are harmless and do not cause any permanent changes to your vision. You can consult your doctor if your colour perception feels overwhelming and starts interrupting your daily life. They can schedule an eye exam to rule out any severe problems and protect your vision.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on Why Colours May Appear Brighter or Faded During Pregnancy?

Is it normal for colours to look different only in the third trimester?
Most women notice colour changes become more obvious in the second or third trimester of pregnancy because the hormones change the most during this period.
Can gestational diabetes affect colour perception?
High blood sugar levels may change the way you see colours, but managing your glucose levels can help restore your vision.
When should I worry about changes in my vision during pregnancy?
If the vision changes are sudden, painful, or you see flashes of light, it can indicate a severe problem, which requires urgent medical care.