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

Abstract

To study the intraocular pressure (IOP) and tear production changes in uncomplicated pregnant women at term pregnancy and immediate postpartum. 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. 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 (<i>P</i> < 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. 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.