The eye in pregnancy: Ophthalmologic and neuro-ophthalmologic changes

Abstract

A variety of changes in the eye can occur during pregnancy. These can be physiological, pathologic related to the pregnancy, or pathologic unrelated to the pregnancy. Pregnancy also can affect preexisting conditions. Pregnant women often discuss changes in their health first with their obstetrician; therefore, knowledge of common ophthalmic complaints during pregnancy is of particular concern for the practicing obstetrician. We reviewed the literature for ophthalmic and neuro-ophthalmic conditions that occur during pregnancy or in the postpartum period. Results are presented anatomically, first discussing general ophthalmologic conditions, then neuro-ophthalmic conditions follow. Effects of ocular medications on the fetus are reviewed. © 2013, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.