On occasion of Breastfeeding Week, let’s understand the potential effects of breastfeeding on vision and tip to manage them to ensure a smoother transition into motherhood. New Delhi: Breast feeding is the most essential part of post pregnancy, it is not only crucial for the babies but also for the health of the new mothers. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a new mother must breast feed for atleast 6 months, but there can be some effects on the body of the mothers including vision problems.
Reports say, some women may develop blurry vision when they are pregnant or breastfeed. This can happen because the fluid that can give them a swollen feet or other areas of the body, like behind the eyes. Dr Nita Shah , Head of Clinical Services , Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, Chembur shared with News9 , “ Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural process that provides essential nutrition and bonding for both mother and baby.
However, many new mothers may experience changes in their vision during this period, which can be concerning.” On occasion of Breastfeeding Week, let’s understand the potential effects of breastfeeding on vision and tip to manage them to ensure a smoother transition into motherhood. Effects of Breastfeeding on a Mother’s Vision Blurred Vision: During breastfeeding, hormonal fluctuations can cause fluid retention throughout the body, including the eyes.
This may result in temporary changes in the shape of the cornea or lens, leading to blurred vision. The cornea’s thickness might increase slightly, affecting how light is refracted into the eye. Fortunately, these changes are usually temporary and typically resolve within a few months after weaning.
Change in Prescription: Some women may notice that their current eyeglass or contact lens prescription seems slightly off during breastfeeding. It is generally advisable to wait a few months after weaning before getting a new prescription, as vision often returns to its pre-pregnancy state. Dry Eyes: Hormonal changes, particularly fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels, can reduce tear production, resulting in dry, irritated eyes.
Additionally, the demands of caring for a newborn, including frequent nighttime feedings, can contribute to eye fatigue and dryness. Using artificial tears and staying well-hydrated can help alleviate this symptom. Increased Risk of Eye Infections: The combination of hormonal changes, a potentially compromised immune system due to the physical demands of breastfeeding, and fatigue can make mothers more susceptible to eye infections such as conjunctivitis.
Maintaining good hygiene, including regular hand-washing, is important to minimize this risk. Diabetic Retinopathy: For mothers with pre-existing diabetes, the hormonal changes associated with pregnancy and breastfeeding can sometimes exacerbate diabetic retinopathy—a condition where high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina. Close monitoring by an ophthalmologist is crucial for diabetic mothers during this period.
Migraines with Visual Aura: Some women may experience an increase in migraines with visual aura during breastfeeding. Symptoms may include flashing lights, zigzag lines, or temporary blind spots. Although this condition is not directly an eye problem, it affects vision and can be concerning.
Postpartum Thyroid Issues: Thyroid problems that develop after childbirth can sometimes persist during breastfeeding. Thyroid disorders can affect the eyes, leading to symptoms such as dry eyes, blurred vision, or, in severe cases, bulging eyes. Nutritional Considerations: Breastfeeding requires additional nutrients, and deficiencies can potentially impact eye health.
For instance, vitamin A is crucial for eye health and is also important in breast milk. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports both maternal eye health and infant nutrition..
