Understanding changes in vision during pregnancy

If you’ve noticed your eyesight changing during pregnancy—blurry vision, dry eyes, or even increased sensitivity to light—you’re not imagining it.

Changes in vision are surprisingly common during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters. While usually temporary and harmless, they can be unsettling if you’re not expecting them.

Here’s what’s happening, why it’s normal, and when to seek support.

Why Does Pregnancy Affect Vision?

Pregnancy affects almost every system in the body—including your eyes. Hormonal shifts, fluid retention, and changes in blood circulation can all influence how your eyes function.

Some common causes of pregnancy-related vision changes include:

• Fluid retention: Can alter the shape or thickness of the cornea, slightly changing how you see
• Hormonal fluctuations: Can affect tear production, leading to dry or irritated eyes
• Changes in blood pressure: Can affect the blood vessels in your eyes and how clearly you see
• Blood sugar changes: Particularly in women with gestational diabetes, can cause temporary changes in vision

These shifts are usually not cause for concern, but understanding them helps ease unnecessary worry.

Common Vision Changes During Pregnancy

Blurry vision
Your cornea may change shape slightly due to fluid buildup, which can affect your ability to focus. It’s usually mild and resolves after birth.

Dry or irritated eyes
Reduced tear production can make your eyes feel gritty, itchy, or more sensitive to wind and light.

Light sensitivity or glare
Some women report feeling more sensitive to bright lights or screen glare.

Difficulty wearing contact lenses
You may find contacts less comfortable or that your prescription no longer feels right. Switching to glasses temporarily can help.

Temporary prescription changes
It’s common for vision to fluctuate slightly—especially if you already wear glasses. This usually resolves postpartum, so it’s best to delay updating your prescription unless absolutely necessary.

When Should You Be Concerned?

Most vision changes are minor and temporary. However, some changes could signal a more serious issue and need medical attention. Contact your doctor or midwife if you experience:

• Sudden or severe vision loss
• Flashes of light, floaters, or spots in your vision
• Double vision
• Intense eye pain
• Persistent headache accompanied by vision changes
• Swelling in your face or hands

These may be symptoms of conditions like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or high blood pressure, and should be checked urgently.

How to Care for Your Eyes During Pregnancy

Use lubricating eye drops
Over-the-counter artificial tears can ease dry, irritated eyes. Just check with your pharmacist or provider before use.

Take screen breaks
If you work on a computer, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

Wear sunglasses outdoors
Protect your eyes from harsh light and reduce sensitivity by using sunglasses with UV protection.

Switch to glasses if needed
If contacts become uncomfortable, don’t force it. Temporary use of glasses can make a big difference.

Rest your eyes
Sleep and breaks throughout the day support overall eye health—especially when you’re already feeling fatigued.

Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water supports healthy tear production and overall circulation.

Avoid vision correction procedures during pregnancy
It’s recommended to wait until after birth and breastfeeding before getting new glasses, contacts, or eye surgery, as your vision may still be shifting.