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Pregnancy and the eye
Edmund W C Khong1,2, Helen H L Chan3,4, Stephanie L Watson5,6
1Department of Surgery, Central Clinical School, Monash University.
Current Opinion in Ophthalmology
|October 4, 2021
Summary
Pregnancy can cause eye changes and affect conditions like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. Optimal treatment during pregnancy remains uncertain, necessitating further research and collaborative care.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Pregnancy is associated with various physiological changes that can impact ocular health.
- Preexisting eye conditions require careful management during pregnancy due to potential risks to both mother and fetus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review common ocular changes during pregnancy.
- To examine the effects of pregnancy on pre-existing conditions like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.
- To highlight treatment challenges for eye conditions during pregnancy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on pregnancy and ocular conditions.
- Analysis of current treatment guidelines and safety data.
- Synthesis of information on refractive changes, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and uveitis.
Main Results:
- Refractive changes, particularly in keratoconus, may persist postpartum.
- Glaucoma treatment safety in pregnancy is largely unknown; selective laser trabeculoplasty is preferred.
- Anti-VEGF agents for diabetic retinopathy should be avoided in early pregnancy due to unknown fetal effects.
- Noninfectious uveitis often improves during pregnancy, allowing for reduced systemic therapy.
Conclusions:
- Ocular changes during pregnancy necessitate further research for clear treatment recommendations.
- Balancing maternal sight preservation and fetal health is crucial.
- Preconception planning and multidisciplinary care are essential for managing eye conditions in pregnant patients.
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