Blurry Vision During Pregnancy? Here’s What You Need to Know
04 Mar 2025
Pregnancy brings a lot of changes—some expected, like a growing belly, and others surprising, like blurry vision or dry eyes. If you’ve noticed your eyesight isn’t as sharp as before, don’t worry—you’re not alone! Many moms-to-be experience vision changes during pregnancy due to hormonal shifts, fluid retention, and other body adjustments.
In this article, we’ll break down why vision changes happen, what symptoms to watch for, and when you should call your doctor.
Wear Sunglasses – Protect your eyes from light sensitivity
Rest Your Eyes – Take breaks from screens to reduce strain
Adjust Contact Lens Use – If contacts feel uncomfortable, switch to glasses temporarily
Stay Hydrated – Drinking plenty of water can help with fluid balance Most vision changes will resolve within a few weeks after delivery. However, if your eyesight doesn’t improve or worsens, see an eye doctor.
Why Does Pregnancy Affect Your Vision?
Your body goes through incredible transformations during pregnancy, and your eyes are no exception. Several factors can contribute to vision changes, including:1. Hormonal Shifts
Hormones like estrogen and progesterone affect nearly every part of your body—including your eyes. These changes can cause blurred vision, dry eyes, and even temporary shifts in prescription.2. Fluid Retention
Pregnancy causes your body to retain more fluids, which can lead to swelling in different areas—including the cornea (the clear front part of your eye). This can slightly change its shape, leading to distorted or blurry vision.3. Increased Blood Flow
Higher blood volume during pregnancy can cause minor swelling in the blood vessels of the eyes. This can result in puffiness, redness, or even small changes in vision.4. Gestational Diabetes and Preeclampsia
In some cases, vision changes may signal a more serious condition, like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia. If you experience sudden vision loss, flashing lights, or severe headaches, contact your doctor immediately.Common Vision Changes During Pregnancy
Every pregnancy is unique, but some of the most common eye-related symptoms include:- Blurry Vision – Due to corneal swelling and fluid retention
- Dry or Irritated Eyes – A result of hormonal changes affecting tear production
- Increased Light Sensitivity – Some women find they’re more sensitive to bright lights
- Temporary Changes in Prescription – Your glasses or contacts may not feel "right"
- Seeing Spots or Floaters – This can be normal but should be monitored for sudden increases
When to See a Doctor
While mild vision changes are normal, some symptoms may indicate a more serious issue. Call your doctor if you experience:- Sudden vision loss or extreme blurriness
- Flashes of light, dark spots, or floaters that won’t go away
- Severe eye pain or redness
- A sudden increase in headaches or high blood pressure
Tips for Managing Vision Changes
If your vision is bothering you, try these simple tips: Use Lubricating Eye Drops – Safe artificial tears can help with drynessWear Sunglasses – Protect your eyes from light sensitivity
Rest Your Eyes – Take breaks from screens to reduce strain
Adjust Contact Lens Use – If contacts feel uncomfortable, switch to glasses temporarily
Stay Hydrated – Drinking plenty of water can help with fluid balance Most vision changes will resolve within a few weeks after delivery. However, if your eyesight doesn’t improve or worsens, see an eye doctor.
