In order for a pregnancy to be maintained, the female body produces hormones. Because of this Hormonal changes the mother's body changes. Sometimes the composition of the tear film can also change. The tear film covers the eyes and sometimes protects the cornea from drying out, from dirt particles, and from various environmental influences.
The fat content, the mucus layer, and the watery part of the tear film therefore keep our eyes clean. With every blink, the mixture is reapplied to the eyes and cleaned. During pregnancy, however, the composition of the tear film mixture can vary. If this is the case, the tear film on the eye may break up too quickly and dry spots may occur. An unpleasant feeling for the expectant mother.
What can you do to soothe your eyes?
In addition to chemical-based medications, there are also natural alternatives here.
Drinking plenty of fluids
It is important that you drink plenty of fluids, i.e., at least 2 liters a day.
Cold cucumber slices
Cold cucumber slices from the refrigerator have a soothing effect when placed on the eyelids for a few minutes.
Cold water
Dripping cold water into the eyes can also provide relief.
Black tea
Black tea in a cooled bag also counteracts dryness and itching. Place one on your eyes for a few minutes and let the tannins in the tea take effect.
Help for dry eyes for contact lens wearers
Very important for contact lens wearers: avoid wearing lenses during pregnancy. Why? Quite simply: contact lenses allow less oxygen to reach the eyes. Even highly oxygen-permeable contact lenses cause dry eyes because they ultimately lie on the eyes. However, how can you protect your eyes?
High humidity
High humidity in the home (between 55%-65%) can alleviate the condition. Ventilate the rooms frequently and well. Room humidifiers can also be helpful.
Avoid drafts, air conditioning, or overheated rooms
Avoid staying in drafts, in overheated rooms, in the presence of air conditioning, and in dry room conditions. Instead, go out into the great outdoors, but protect yourself from wind and drafts.
No cigarette smoke
It is better not to stay in rooms where smoking is allowed. The smoke from cigarettes & Co. irritates the conjunctiva and additionally reduces the tear film.
What can I use to provide relief for my eyes?
There are several remedies in pharmacies that can promote the tear film. These drops contain salts in addition to water. If the symptoms do not subside despite everything, you should definitely see an ophthalmologist.
Are contact lenses actually allowed during birth?
Not all expectant mothers have problems with their eyes during pregnancy. Much more frequently, the question arises as to whether the use of contact lenses is permitted during birth. For a long time, the principle applied that contact lenses are forbidden in the delivery room. Why? During birth, the internal pressure of the eyes sometimes increases. Here, contact lenses would clearly be a hindrance and could sometimes lead to complications.
However, since development is much further along today and visual aids also have a better quality, the question of using contact lenses during birth has moved more into the background. Contact lenses are much easier to remove today and can be quickly taken out and disposed of in case of doubt. As a pregnant woman, you should still mention this fact during the admission interview at the clinic and accept opinions on the subject.
For ladies who only suffer from slight visual impairment, this topic should hardly be on the agenda. It is better to do without the visual aid and do not worry: during birth (especially during the pushing phase), most women usually have their eyes closed and the optics play a rather secondary role.
Only when the child sees the world will you want to see the little miracle – therefore, glasses and contact lenses should not be missing at this moment.
Gradually, the hormonal balance will normalize again – in the coming weeks, the tear film of the eyes will readjust and everything will take its usual course.
Read also:Â Tips for swollen eyelids
Photo by Janine, meinhaushalt.at
