Why Does Dry Eyes Happen During Pregnancy?

What It Means

Pregnancy alters nearly every physiological system — hormonal changes, expanded blood volume, mechanical pressure from the growing uterus and immune modulation all affect how dry eyes presents and should be managed. Many remedies safe outside pregnancy are contraindicated; always consult your obstetric team before starting any treatment.

Key Factors

• →First trimester: oestrogen and hCG surges drive nausea, fatigue and vascular changes
• →Second trimester: expanding uterus displaces organs and increases reflux and back load
• →Third trimester: reduced diaphragm excursion limits breathing reserve; oedema is common
• →Relaxin hormone loosens ligaments throughout pregnancy, altering posture and joint stability
• →Pregnancy-specific complications (pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes) present with overlapping symptoms

Common Causes

• →Infections and inflammation — bacterial, viral, or autoimmune triggers activate dry eyes
• →Metabolic disturbances — hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, or blood sugar changes
• →Structural or vascular causes — tissue damage, nerve compression, or circulatory problems
• →Psychological factors — stress, anxiety, and depression can produce measurable physical dry eyes
• →Underlying conditions such as Sjogrens Syndrome frequently present with dry eyes as a core feature

Related Conditions

• Sjögren's SyndromeSjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease primarily affecting the salivary and lacrimal glands, causing dry eyes (xerophthalmia) and dry mouth (xerostomia). It can be primary or secondary to other autoimmune diseases like RA or lupus.
• Dry Eye SyndromeDry eye disease occurs when tears cannot adequately lubricate the eyes due to insufficient production or rapid evaporation. One of the most common eye conditions worldwide.
• Primary Biliary CholangitisPrimary biliary cholangitis is a chronic autoimmune liver disease causing progressive bile duct destruction. Left untreated it leads to liver cirrhosis.