Contact Lens Care and Pregnancy: Tips for Safe Wear
Being pregnant is an exciting time, but it can also be a little overwhelming. Your body is changing, and you want to make sure you take care of yourself and your growing baby. If you wear contact lenses, it’s important to know that there are certain precautions you should take to ensure safe wear during pregnancy. So, here are some tips to help you through this time!
Hygiene First, Always!
First and foremost, hygiene is essential when it comes to lens care during pregnancy. Always remember to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before handling your lenses. Make sure to dry them well, so there is no residue left on your fingers that can transfer to your lenses. Also, avoid using moisturizing soaps or lotions before handling your contacts as they can cause smudging which makes it hard to see.
Store Them Safely
Using a reliable storage solution can go a long way in preventing infections. During pregnancy, it’s best to avoid storing your contact lenses in a solution that contains hydrogen peroxide, as it can cause irritation and damage to your eyes. Instead, use a sterilizing solution specifically made for soft contact lenses. Be sure to discard and replace the solution daily to keep bacteria from collecting in the lens case.
Change Them Regularly
It’s important to change your lenses regularly, regardless of whether or not you are pregnant. However, during pregnancy, your eyes may become drier than normal, and you may be more prone to infections. Therefore, it’s essential to follow your optometrist’s advice on when to replace your contact lenses. Always use fresh lenses and discard the old ones right on time.
Talk to your Optometrist
As always, maintaining regular visits to your optometrist is essential during pregnancy. They can answer any questions you may have concerning contact lens wear and give you personalized tips and care instructions. They may suggest an alternative form of visual correction if you face any issues with your contact lenses.
Conclusion
Pregnancy can come with its set of surprises, but caring for your contact lenses doesn’t have to be one of them. Following these simple tips can ensure that you enjoy comfortable and safe contact lens wear throughout your pregnancy. Remember, always listen to your optometrist, and take good care of your eyes to enjoy this exciting time to the fullest!