Eye Risks in Pregnancy With Preexisting Diabetes
@t1dsugarmommas @sugarmommasdiabetes
Why do I have more eye exams while pregnant?
As a woman who lives with preexisting diabetes we always hear of the necessity for more frequent eye exams in pregnancy. But why do our doctors want us to have more frequent visits during pregnancy? Pregnancy hormones are known to put an additional stress on a woman’s eyes. In a woman with preexisting diabetes, the biggest concern would be the risk of worsening retinopathy and in some cases even Diabetic Macular Edema (DME). There are no known differences to this risk based on having Type 1, Type 2 or Gestational Diabetes.
What is Retinopathy and DME?
Pregnancy can make retinopathy progress more rapidly therefore good blood sugar control is essential. What is retinopathy? Retinopathy is damage to the fine blood vessels in the eye. It can lead to bleeding, fluid leakage, swelling and retinal detachments.
Pregnancy can make existing retinopathy worsen rapidly. Another potential occurrence in women with diabetes is Diabetic Macular Edema (DME). DME is swelling in the retina due to damaged and leaky capillaries. it is typically treated with anti-VEGF medications that are injected into the eye. These treatments are quite effective if given in a timely manner and on the proper schedule. DME can be preexisting before pregnancy and can develop in pregnancy. Though eye injections are not recommended during pregnancy, consult with your ophthalmologist as this may be a necessary treatment option. They can help you work out the best treatment plan for you.
Eye treatments in pregnancy.
Eye bleeds are more frequent in pregnancy for a person with diabetes. Is this a guarantee? No, not at all. If you do have bleeds in pregnancy, ideally observation from your provider for reabsorption of the blood is ideal. If it does not stop, then laser is the next safest treatment during pregnancy, followed by anti-VEGF medications that are injected into the eye.
Should I be worried?
If you’re a woman living with preexisting diabetes and you’ve had good blood sugar control before and during pregnancy, your overall risk for eye issues is low. There is always a possibility that eye issues can occur, but with well controlled diabetes this risk is lowered. Always consult your medical professionals before and during pregnancy. Having a great eye doctor who you trust is key!
