Lens replacement surgery is usually not recommended during pregnancy, because your body and eyes are changing and safety is the priority.
Why pregnancy is a caution
Hormones in pregnancy can temporarily alter your glasses prescription and tear film. Anaesthetic choices, medications, and the stress of surgery also need careful consideration for you and your baby.
- Vision measurements may be less stable while pregnant
- Some eye drops and tablets used around surgery are not well studied in pregnancy
- Lying flat for surgery can feel uncomfortable in later pregnancy
- Elective procedures are generally postponed until after delivery
- Urgent surgery is reserved for serious problems, such as sight-threatening cataract
Planning around pregnancy
If you are thinking about surgery and might become pregnant, timing is important. Many clinics suggest waiting until several months after pregnancy and breastfeeding to allow hormones and vision to settle.
- Discuss family plans during your suitability assessment
- Routine cataract or lens replacement is often delayed until after birth
- Seek urgent review if you notice sudden vision changes in pregnancy
- Diabetes or blood pressure issues in pregnancy also need eye checks
- Your obstetric and eye teams will work together if any urgent eye problem arises
