Intraocular pressure and tear production changes in pregnant women at term pregnancy and immediate post-partum: A pilot study

Abstract

Aim: To study the intraocular pressure (IOP) and tear production changes in uncomplicated pregnant women at term pregnancy and immediate postpartum. Materials and methods: The patients admitted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology for delivery were included in the study. A total of 106 participants who were at term uncomplicated pregnancy were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. They were subjected to type 1 Schirmer's testing and intraocular pressure measurement by Perkin's tonometer before and after delivery. Result: There was no significant pre- and postdelivery IOP difference between the different age groups (<30 and ≥30 years), mode of delivery, and parity. There was a statistically significant (P < 0.001) increase in mean tear production (Schirmer's test) after delivery, irrespective of age group, mode of delivery, and gravida status. However, no significant intergroup difference was observed. Conclusion: There was no significant change in IOP before and after delivery in uncomplicated pregnancies. However, a statistically significant increase in tear production was observed in the immediate postpartum period.

Keywords

• intra-ocular pressure change
• tear production change
• term pregnancy