Eye Care Tips During Pregnancy: 6 Quick Facts For Pregnant Women To Know

Pregnancy and eye health In a previous article, we had discussed why eye health is important and why women, more than men, need to prioritise the well-being of their eyes so that they do not encounter vision problems in the future. Dr Raju Manglawat, medical director at Dr Agarwal's Eye Hospital, Indore, had said that in different stages of a woman’s life, such as pregnancy, menopause, post-menopause, etc., the risk of blurred vision 'fluctuates', and women have to be extremely cautious. According to the doctor, pregnancy is a 'transformative period' for women, whose bodies undergo numerous changes, including those that can affect the eyes. Read on to find out more about eye care tips for pregnant women.Hormonal changes Pregnancy hormones can lead to changes in vision, said the doctor, adding that dry eyes or increased sensitivity to light are some common problems. While these changes are often temporary, they should be discussed with an eye care professional.Regular eye exams Pregnant women should not skip their regular eye exams, Dr Manglawat advised. Since there are hormonal fluctuations and potential changes in vision, it becomes crucial to monitor eye health throughout pregnancy.It produces several hormones Oestrogen, progesterone and human placental lactogen (HPL).Nutrient-rich diet Proper nutrition becomes even more critical during pregnancy, when the mother has to take care of her own health, along with that of her baby. Vitamins and minerals like folic acid, vitamin A, and omega-3 fatty acids support maternal and fetal eye health.Manage fluid retention Fluid retention is common during pregnancy; it can affect the shape and thickness of the cornea, leading to changes in vision. Staying active and maintaining a balanced fluid intake can help manage this problem, the doctor said.Reduce eye strain Additionally, it is imperative to reduce eye strain, especially since pregnancy comes with fatigue and increased susceptibility to eyes. One must take breaks and practise the '20-20-20 rule' of looking 20 feet away, for 20 seconds, every 20 minutes. Ensuring proper lighting can alleviate eye discomfort.