Dry eye living in pregnancy
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Dry eye is a condition where your eyes either do not make enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. This can make your eyes feel dry, gritty, or uncomfortable. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can affect tear production.
Key facts
- Dry eye is common in pregnancy, especially in the third trimester.
- Symptoms usually improve after giving birth.
- Simple self-care steps like using preservative-free artificial tears can help.
Yes, dry eye symptoms are quite common during pregnancy, affecting up to one in three pregnant women due to hormonal shifts.
Pregnant women, especially those in the later stages of pregnancy. Women who already had dry eye may notice worsening symptoms.
Symptoms
- Sudden severe eye pain
- Sudden loss of vision
- Eye injury
- ⚠Persistent redness or discharge that does not improve
- ⚠Signs of infection such as swelling or pain
Common symptoms
- Dryness or grittiness in the eyes
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Redness
- Blurry vision that comes and goes
- Sensitivity to light
- Feeling like something is in the eye
Causes
Main causes
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy (especially estrogen and progesterone) that can decrease tear production
- Changes in tear composition
- Increased fluid retention affecting the eyes
Risk factors
- Wearing contact lenses
- Spending long hours on screens
- Dry or windy environments
- Having a history of dry eye or autoimmune conditions like Sjögren's syndrome
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you have severe eye pain, vision changes, or signs of infection
Book a routine appointment if:
- If dry eye symptoms are bothersome and not relieved by simple measures
- If you are considering using eye drops during pregnancy – ask your doctor or midwife which ones are safe
Diagnosis
Your doctor or eye specialist will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may examine your eyes with a special microscope called a slit lamp.
Tests that may be done
- Tear break-up time test – measures how quickly tears evaporate
- Schirmer test – measures tear production with a small strip of paper
- Staining with special dyes to see the surface of your eye
What to expect at your appointment
The tests are simple and painless. They help determine the cause and severity of your dry eye.
Treatment
Treatment for dry eye in pregnancy focuses on relief and safety for you and your baby. Most treatments are non-medical and involve adding moisture or reducing tear evaporation.
Self-care at home
- Use a humidifier at home to add moisture to the air
- Avoid smoky or windy environments
- Take regular breaks from screens – the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds
- Wear sunglasses or wraparound glasses outdoors
- Place warm compresses on closed eyes for a few minutes each day
Medical treatments
Over-the-counter artificial tears that are preservative-free are generally considered safe during pregnancy. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before using any eye drops. For more severe cases, your doctor may recommend ointments or other treatments that are safe in pregnancy.
Living with this condition
Dry eye can be annoying but usually does not prevent you from doing daily activities. However, it can make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable. You may need to switch to glasses during pregnancy.
Lifestyle tips
- Blink frequently, especially when reading or using screens
- Avoid rubbing your eyes
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
Diet and exercise
A healthy diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids may support eye health, but check with your doctor before taking any supplements. Gentle exercise is fine and may improve circulation.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Persistent discomfort can be frustrating and affect your mood. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to your healthcare provider. Remember, this is temporary. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, please contact your local emergency number immediately.
Prevention
You may not be able to prevent dry eye during pregnancy entirely because it is linked to hormones. But you can reduce symptoms with good eye habits.
Complications
If left untreated
- Severe dry eye can lead to damage to the surface of the eye (cornea)
- Increased risk of eye infections
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
Long-term outlook
For most women, dry eye during pregnancy is a temporary condition that improves after the baby is born. With simple self-care and safe treatments, you can manage symptoms comfortably. Your eyes will likely return to normal after delivery.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
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Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 30, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.