In this article:
Why Does Light Feel So Harsh in Pregnancy?
According to Dr Chaudhary, a lot of women report feeling compelled to use sunglasses more often in pregnancy, and it is not just because of brighter weather. The hormonal effects can cause increased sensitivity to light, otherwise known as photophobia.Also, the effect of pregnancy on tear production and fluid balance can cause dryness, temporary changes in the structure of the cornea, and blurred vision. This means that light, especially direct sunlight, may feel irritating compared to when your vision was unaffected by pregnancy.
The described effects on the eyes are just another manifestation of pregnancy-related fluid retention and shifting, which causes various other pregnancy symptoms such as swollen legs and ankles. The way excess fluid can accumulate in the ankles and hands is similar to how it accumulates on the surface of the eyes.
What Are Other Factors Causing Light Sensitivity?
Dr Chaudhary says that migraine headaches caused by pregnancy, high blood pressure, and increased strain on the eyes are some of the other factors that can cause light sensitivity in women. In this way, light sensitivity in pregnancy is caused not only by one factor but by several other factors that can affect your eyes.If you have a history of migraines, then you can notice an increase in light sensitivity when a migraine is impending, as this is one of the characteristics of migraines and can be aggravated due to pregnancy.
How Can You Get Some Relieffrom Sensitivity to Light?
Several ways may provide relief from sensitivity to light and eye discomfort during pregnancy, as mentioned by Dr Chaudhary:- Wearing high-quality UV-protected sunglasses while being outside
- Staying hydrated
- Using lubricating eye drops prescribed by a doctor
- Reducing screen time
If you work with screens a lot or spend much time looking at screens for leisure, make sure to take breaks periodically to give your eyes a rest.
When Does Light Sensitivity Indicate a Problem?
"While mild light sensitivity is typically temporary and improves after childbirth, any sudden visual disturbance, including seeing flashes of light, severe blurring of vision, severe headaches, or losing vision, requires urgent medical care, as it can be indicative of preeclampsia or other serious conditions during pregnancy."Dr Alka Chaudhary, Senior Consultant, Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Madhukar Rainbow Children's Hospital
It is very important to understand this difference. Mild and gradual onset light sensitivity related to normal pregnancy changes is quite different from a sudden visual disturbance, and you need to know the difference in order to act fast.
When Do You Need to Contact Your Doctor?
Consult a doctor if you have:- Flashes of light in your vision
- Very blurry vision
- Constant headaches combined with vision changes
- Vision loss, even temporary vision loss
- Sharp or severe pain in the eye that does not feel like normal light sensitivity
Picking up your sunglasses a bit more often while being pregnant is probably another one of the many normal adjustments your body makes. Shield your eyes from bright light, drink enough water, and rest your eyes after looking at screens. While you do that, be aware of any sudden or severe vision changes.
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FAQs on Why Do Sunglasses Feel More Necessary During Pregnancy?
- Will my light sensitivity disappear after giving birth?
Usually, yes. Temporary light sensitivity experienced during pregnancy will normally fade after childbirth. - When should I be worried about vision changes during pregnancy?
If you see flashing lights, blurred vision, a headache, or lose your sight, seek immediate help, as it may be caused by such dangerous complications of pregnancy as preeclampsia. - Do pregnancy hormones affect vision in any way?
Yes, changes in hormones during pregnancy might bring temporary changes such as dry eyes, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light.