Glaucoma living in pregnancy

Overview

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve – the cable that sends signals from your eye to your brain. This damage is often linked to high pressure inside the eye. If not treated, glaucoma can lead to vision loss. When you are pregnant, managing glaucoma is important for both your eye health and your baby's safety.

Glaucoma in pregnant women is not very common, but it does affect some women who already have the condition or develop it during pregnancy.

It affects pregnant women who have been diagnosed with glaucoma before pregnancy or who are at higher risk due to age, family history, or other health conditions.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• No early symptoms – many people don't notice anything until vision loss occurs.
• Gradual loss of side vision (peripheral vision), especially in both eyes.
• Blurred vision or seeing halos around lights.
• Eye pain or redness (less common).

Symptoms in children

• Not applicable for this topic (glaucoma in pregnancy).

Symptoms in older adults

• Same symptoms as general glaucoma – often no warning signs until advanced stages.

Causes

Main causes

• High pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure) due to fluid buildup.
• Poor drainage of eye fluid (aqueous humor).
• Damage to the optic nerve from pressure or poor blood flow.

Risk factors

• Having a family history of glaucoma.
• Being over 40 years old.
• Having high eye pressure (even without damage).
• Having a thin cornea (the clear front part of the eye).
• Being of African, Hispanic, or Asian descent.
• Having other health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have sudden vision loss or severe eye pain.
• If you have nausea with eye pain.
• If you notice a rapid change in your vision.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have glaucoma and are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, see your eye doctor regularly.
• Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at least once during pregnancy, even without symptoms.

Diagnosis

Glaucoma is diagnosed through a complete eye examination. Your eye doctor will measure your eye pressure, examine the optic nerve, and test your vision.

Tests that may be done

• Tonometry – a painless test that measures eye pressure.
• Ophthalmoscopy – looking at the back of your eye (the optic nerve) with a special lens.
• Perimetry – a visual field test to check your side vision.
• Pachymetry – measuring the thickness of your cornea.

What to expect at your appointment

The tests are safe during pregnancy. You'll sit in a dark room and look at a machine. There are no needles. Your doctor will discuss results with you and recommend a plan that is safe for both you and your baby.

Treatment

Treatment for glaucoma during pregnancy aims to lower eye pressure and protect the optic nerve. Your doctor will choose the safest options for you and your baby. Many treatments are safe, but some may need adjustment.

Self-care at home

• Take all prescribed eye drops exactly as told – never skip doses.
• Keep all follow-up appointments – your eye pressure needs close monitoring.
• Tell your eye doctor about any new symptoms or side effects.
• Wear sunglasses outdoors to reduce glare and help vision.

Medical treatments

Your doctor may prescribe eye drops that reduce eye pressure. These are generally considered safe in pregnancy, but every case is different. Laser treatments (like selective laser trabeculoplasty) can also lower pressure without daily drops. In some cases, oral medications may be used, but only after checking with your obstetrician.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery for glaucoma is rarely needed during pregnancy. It may be considered if eye pressure remains very high despite medicines and laser. The decision will involve both your eye doctor and obstetrician to protect your baby.

Living with this condition

Living with glaucoma while pregnant means balancing eye care with prenatal care. Most women can continue their normal daily activities, but you should avoid heavy lifting or activities that put pressure on your head, such as certain yoga poses (like headstands).

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid exercises that involve lowering your head below your heart – this can increase eye pressure.
• Don't rub your eyes – it doesn't help and can raise pressure.
• Wear protective eyewear if doing anything that could injure your eyes.
• Get enough rest – fatigue can make vision feel worse.

Diet and exercise

A healthy pregnancy diet is fine. There is no special diet for glaucoma. Drinking plenty of water is good, but avoid drinking large amounts quickly in a short time, as that can briefly raise eye pressure. Moderate exercise like walking is encouraged, but check with your doctor first.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Pregnancy is already a time of big changes. Worrying about your vision and your baby's health can cause anxiety and stress. It's normal to feel this way. Talk to your doctor or a counselor if you feel overwhelmed.

Prevention

Glaucoma itself cannot be prevented, but early diagnosis and treatment can prevent vision loss. Regular eye exams are the best way to catch glaucoma early.

Screening programmes

Ask your doctor about a comprehensive eye exam during pregnancy, especially if you have risk factors like family history or high eye pressure.

Complications

If left untreated

• Permanent vision loss – first in side vision, then central vision.
• Blindness if glaucoma is not controlled.
• Worsening of eye pressure during pregnancy due to hormonal changes.

Long-term outlook

With proper care, most women with glaucoma can have a healthy pregnancy and maintain good vision. Your doctors will adjust treatment as needed. The future is bright when you stay on top of your eye health.

Find support

International organisations

• Glaucoma Research Foundation
• International Glaucoma Association

Local organisations

• Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust · UK

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