Corneal Sensitivity in Pregnancy

Abstract

Only few studies are available on changes in corneal sensitivity during pregnancy, and most of the earlier work was done with instruments which gave only a rough approximation of the threshold of corneal sensitivity to touch. The new esthesiometer developed by Draeger permits, for the first time, an exact and reproducible determination of the threshold of corneal sensitivity to touch. We studied corneal sensitivity in 86 pregnant women between the 13th and 40th week of gestation. The thresholds were significantly higher in the study group as compared to a control group of non-pregnant women. The decrease in corneal sensitivity was not related to duration of gestation, weight gain during pregnancy or mean arterial pressure at the time of examination. Possible mechanisms responsible for changes in corneal sensitivity in pregnancy are discussed.

Pregnancy and the Eye

“…8 The cornea thickens in response to corneal edema. Alterations in corneal curvature may occur, increasing in late pregnancy and resolving after the conclusion of the birth and breastfeeding period.…”

Evaluation of anterior segment parameters during and after pregnancy

“…In previous studies, researchers have tried to define the physiological effects of pregnancy on the eyes. A drop in intraocular pressure (IOP), loss in the visual field, decreased corneal sensitivity, and increase in corneal thickness and curvature are some of the physiological changes [2][3][4][5][6][7][8].…”

Ophthalmic Complications and Ocular Changes in Pregnancy- A Review

“…Tear production decreases due to lacrimal dysfunction, resulting in dry eye syndrome [5,6]. Also, corneal sensation is significantly decreased [7][8][9]. The combination of poor tear film and diminished corneal sensation, make contact lens wear difficult and somewhat dangerous.…”