Abstract

Pregnancy results in various changes to all systems within the body, including the visual system. During pregnancy, several physiological changes can occur within the eye, such as changes to the corneal morphology, dry-eye disease, and a reduction in intraocular pressure. Pathological ocular conditions may also occur during pregnancy due to a pre-existing disease or a new disease. Aim and Objective: The aim of the study is to examine ocular changes in pregnancy in north India. Materials and Methods: A prospective cross-sectional clinical study was done in 100 women with pregnancy (gestational period from 24 weeks to 38 weeks). A detailed medical, ocular, and gestational history was obtained. All pregnant women underwent a detailed eye examination, including assessments of visual acuity, refraction, ocular motility, keratometric reading, anterior segment examination with a slit lamp biomicroscope, intraocular pressure recording with a non-contact tonometer, corneal sensitivity, and dilated fundus examination. Results: A total of 100 women with pregnancy (gestational period 24–38 weeks) underwent detailed eye examinations. 40% showed clinically significant retinal changes with high blood pressure, and in these cases, only 30% showed physiological changes along the way. Conclusions: All pregnant women during the antenatal and postpartum periods should undergo a complete ophthalmic examination and treatment. Early detection of retinal abnormalities can prevent serious complications.

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