CircleBumpCheckedFilledMedicalBookmarkBookmarkTickBookmarkAddCheckBoxCheckBoxFilled

Itchy or Watery Eyes During Pregnancy

Have your eyes been irritating you lately? Find out why you're getting itchy or dry eyes and how you can treat them.
save article
profile picture of Joanne Van Zuidam
Updated April 20, 2017
Hero Image

What are itchy or watery eyes during pregnancy?

Sure, you’re hormonal, but these tears aren’t falling because of that sappy life insurance commercial. Your eyes are itchy and irritated. What gives?

What could be causing my itchy or watery eyes?

Karen Deighan, MD, FACOG, department chairperson of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Gottlieb Memorial Hospital of Loyola University Health System, says the most common cause of itchy, watery eyes, even during pregnancy, is allergies. But there’s a small chance it’s pregnancy-related. “If you’re experiencing a lot of bad swelling late in pregnancy, the extra water retention can make your skin tight all over, and that can make you itchy—eyes included,” she explains.

When should I see the doctor about my itchy or watery eyes?

While it’s not necessary to run to your doctor, you can call and check to see what allergy meds are okay to use.

How should I treat my itchy or watery eyes during pregnancy?

You might be scared to take medications during pregnancy, but you definitely don’t have to suffer, says Deighan. There are plenty of safe over-the-counter allergy meds that you can take.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

save article
ADVERTISEMENT

Next on Your Reading List

pregnant woman with neck pain
How to Get Relief From a Nagging Neck Ache in Pregnancy
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman putting on sneakers
Do Your Feet Actually Grow During Pregnancy?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman brushing teeth in bathroom at home
Pregnancy Gingivitis: What to Do About Bleeding Gums During Pregnancy
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
pregnant woman looking at phone while sitting at home
What Is Pregnancy Nose?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman sleeping in bed at home
Why You Might Be Snoring While Pregnant
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman lying on couch at home
How to Get Relief From Rib Pain During Pregnancy
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman resting on couch at home
Why You Might Experience Joint Pain During Pregnancy
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
pregnant woman feeling belly
How to Distinguish an Irritable Uterus From Real Labor Contractions
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
doctor checking pregnant woman
What Is a Tilted or Retroverted Uterus?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman crossing legs showing incontinence
Why Do I Pee When I Cough or Sneeze During Pregnancy?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
pregnant woman experiencing carpal tunnel in hands and wrists
How to Relieve Carpal Tunnel During Pregnancy
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman wearing white tank top; darkening areolas
Early Pregnancy Signs: Darkening Areolas
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman drinking water at home
Dealing With Excessive Saliva in Pregnancy? Here’s Why
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
pregnant woman sitting by pool on hot summer day
8 Cool Tips for Surviving a Summer Pregnancy
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman with milk stain on shirt
When Does Milk Start Leaking During Pregnancy?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman eating a salad in kitchen at home
Why You Might Experience Loss of Appetite in Early Pregnancy (and Beyond)
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman sitting on couch with feet up
How to Relieve Swollen Feet During Pregnancy
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
closeup of hands on pregnant belly
How to Relieve Swollen Hands During Pregnancy
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman holding a hot cup of tea
How to Relieve a Sore Throat in Pregnancy
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
toilet paper holder on red background
Why You Might Have Blood in Your Stool While Pregnant
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
Article removed.
Article removed.
Name added. View Your List