How Pregnancy Affects Your Eyes: When Should You Get a Retinal Examination?

Pregnancy is a time when every medical appointment revolves around keeping both mother and baby healthy. Your BP, blood sugar, and all ultrasound scans are done to monitor the baby’s growth. Yet, one part of the body often receives far less attention than it deserves: the eyes.

This is surprising because eye changes during pregnancy are more common than many women realise. Research shows that women with diabetes before pregnancy have a significantly higher risk of developing or worsening diabetic retinopathy during pregnancy. Even a woman who is not having any history of eye conditions may notice temporary changes in her vision because of the hormonal changes.

For some women, these changes will go easily after the delivery while in some having the history of diabetes or hypertension, they may raise the need for a retinal examination. Thus, if you’re pregnant, then you must be aware when a pregnancy eye test India is recommended for you so that you don’t have to deal with eye problems during and after the pregnancy.

Why Pregnancy Can Affect Your Eyes?

Pregnancy influences almost every organ in the body, and the eyes are no exception.

Hormonal changes, increased blood volume, fluid retention, and metabolic changes can temporarily alter the way your eyes function. Some women notice that their contact lenses feel uncomfortable, while others experience mild blurred vision, dry eyes, or increased sensitivity to light.

Most of these changes are temporary and improve after childbirth. It’s one of the main reasons why ophthalmologists often work closely with obstetricians with high-risk pregnancy cases.

When will your doctor recommend a retinal exam during pregnancy?

Most women will not need a retinal exam during pregnancy. However, your obstetrician or eye doctor may recommend that you have one done as part of your routine care if you have certain health conditions or are at higher risk for eye complications.

Your doctor may recommend a retinal examination if you:

• Have diabetes (type 1 or type 2).
• Develop gestational diabetes and your doctor thinks retinal screening is necessary.
• You have high blood pressure, or gestational hypertension (preeclampsia).
• Have been diagnosed with pre-eclampsia.
• You have some other condition of the retina or already have diabetic retinopathy.
• Glaucoma.
• Have high myopia (high minuses).
• Have a history of retinal or optic nerve disease.
• Have an autoimmune disease that can involve your eyes.

Very simply. Sometimes pregnancy can speed up changes in the retina especially in women with diabetes or high blood pressure. These changes may not cause noticeable symptoms initially, which is why a retinal exam can be so valuable. This will help your doctor to advise the right treatment for you.

Can you perform a retinal exam at home while pregnant?

Managing multiple doctor visits during pregnancy can be overwhelming, especially if you’re already going to regular antenatal appointments, blood tests, and scans. If your eye doctor suggests a retinal exam, it doesn’t always mean it’s easy to go to another health care facility.

That’s where EyeSetu plays a role.

Through its AI-powered retinal examination, EyeSetu allows eligible patients to have their retinas screened from the comfort of their home. A qualified eye care professional comes to your home, captures retinal images using portable diagnostic equipment and securely shares the images for clinical review. If any retinal abnormalities are encountered, you are referred to the next steps which include consultation with an ophthalmologist when needed.

For expectant mothers with diabetes, hypertension or pre-existing retinal conditions, the ability to book eye test at home can make routine monitoring more convenient without interfering with their pregnancy care schedule. 

You Shouldn’t Ignore to Test Your Vision During Pregnancy 

Many women think that blurred vision is a temporary problem that comes and goes with pregnancy. And, it’s the time when they are doing the wrong thing. While that is often true, it’s important not to make assumptions without an eye examination.

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Vision changes associated with diabetes or pregnancy-induced hypertension can progress silently. 

Dr. Varun Gogia, Director, ICLINIX, says, “Most vision changes during pregnancy are temporary, but women with diabetes, hypertension, or sudden visual symptoms should never ignore a retinal examination. Early assessment helps identify retinal changes that may require timely medical attention, allowing us to protect vision while supporting overall maternal health.”

The key here is to understand that retinal screening is not alway recommended for every pregnant woman. However, it’s advised to always check with your doctor to avoid major problems later. 

Book Your Eye Examination with EyeSetu

If your doctor has recommended retinal screening during pregnancy, EyeSetu offers a convenient way to receive professional eye care at home.

Using AI-powered retinal examination, EyeSetu helps identify retinal changes that may require specialist attention, allowing timely referrals whenever necessary. To book eye test at home, you can:

• Call: +91-9899118310
• Fill out the enquiry form on our website.
• Scan the QR code below to download the EyeSetu app.

Download the EyeSetu App

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With the EyeSetu app, you can schedule appointments, manage your bookings, and connect with eye care professionals, making it easier to stay on top of your eye health throughout your pregnancy. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are vision changes common during pregnancy?

Yes. Many women experience temporary blurred vision, dry eyes, or mild changes in their eyesight because of hormonal and fluid changes. These usually improve after delivery. However, sudden or severe vision changes should always be evaluated by an ophthalmologist.

2. Is retinal imaging safe during pregnancy?

Retinal imaging is generally considered a non-invasive procedure. Your ophthalmologist will recommend the most appropriate pregnancy eye test India home services offered by professionals like EyeSetu based on your medical history and stage of pregnancy.

3. Can high blood pressure during pregnancy affect the eyes?

Yes. Pregnancy-induced hypertension and preeclampsia can affect the blood vessels in the retina and sometimes cause vision changes. Any sudden blurring of vision, flashing lights, or loss of vision should be reported to your doctor immediately and take the necessary actions. 

Healthy Pregnancy Includes Healthy Vision

Pregnancy involves much more than monitoring your baby’s growth. Your own health deserves equal attention, including your eye health. While many vision changes during pregnancy are temporary, some can be an early sign of conditions that require medical care.

If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, existing retinal disease, or your doctor has advised retinal screening, don’t postpone your examination. Go for pregnancy eye test India home services offered by EyeSetu and get your vision tested while continuing your pregnancy care with confidence.

About the Author

Dr. Shikha Gupta is the Co-founder & CEO of EyeSetu and an ophthalmologist with over 15 years of experience in clinical practice and telemedicine. An AIIMS alumna (MBBS, MD Ophthalmology, Gold Medalist) and former Senior Consultant at AIIMS, she is committed to making quality eye care accessible through innovation and technology.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you experience sudden vision changes, eye pain, or have concerns about your eye health during pregnancy, consult your obstetrician or a qualified ophthalmologist promptly. Early evaluation is essential for appropriate care.