Stye During Pregnancy: Causes and Remedies
A stye is a common and usually harmless issue that can appear during pregnancy, often causing discomfort or swelling near the eyelid. Hormonal changes, increased stress, and shifts in your immune system may contribute to its development.
If your stye becomes very painful, persists, or worsens, consult your doctor for advice and proper care.
Is it normal to have Stye while pregnant?
Getting a stye during pregnancy is fairly common and usually nothing to worry about, especially as hormone changes can make you more prone in the first trimester. Mild discomfort is normal, but if swelling, pain, or redness gets worse or doesn’t improve, check in with your doctor.
Stye during different trimesters in pregnancy
| Trimester | What to Expect | Possible Causes |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Trimester | You may notice a red, tender bump on your eyelid as your body adjusts early on. | Hormonal changes, Lowered immunity, Stress, Changes in sleep patterns |
| 2nd Trimester | Styes can occur as hormone levels change and your immune system adapts. | Hormonal fluctuations, Increased oil production, Dietary changes, Touching eyes often |
| 3rd Trimester | Increased fatigue and swelling may make styes more noticeable in late pregnancy. | Fluid retention, Fatigue, Increased stress, Late pregnancy immune changes |
What causes Stye during pregnancy?
There are several reasons why you might experience Stye while pregnant. Some are directly related to pregnancy, while others can happen anytime – pregnant or not.
Common pregnancy-related causes:
- Hormonal changes – Increase oil gland activity
- Lowered immunity – Reduced resistance to bacteria
- Increased skin sensitivity – Prone to irritation and blockage
- Frequent eye rubbing – Due to fatigue or dryness
Other possible causes:
- Poor eyelid hygiene – Accumulation of debris/bacteria
- Contact lens use – Can introduce eye bacteria
- Cosmetic use – Contaminated or expired products
- Pre-existing skin conditions – Eczema or blepharitis flare-ups
Remedies for Stye during pregnancy
There are some things you can do to feel better faster and stay safe:
Natural remedies at home
- Warm compress – Apply clean, warm cloth to eyelid
- Keep eyelid clean – Gently wash with mild baby shampoo
- Avoid eye makeup – Prevent further irritation and infection
- Do not squeeze stye – Reduces risk of spreading infection
- Use clean towels – Prevents cross-contamination and recurrence
Medication (talk to your doctor first)
- Ask about antibiotic ointment – Some are pregnancy-safe if prescribed
- Avoid OTC steroid creams – Not safe during pregnancy
- Consult doctor for worsening symptoms – May need safe alternative treatments
Important: Always talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy.
Take care of you (and baby, too)
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FAQs
1. When should you be concerned about stye?
You should be concerned about a stye during pregnancy if it becomes very painful, does not improve within a week, affects your vision, or if you notice increased redness, swelling, or pus. These symptoms may indicate a more serious infection and require prompt medical evaluation by your healthcare provider.
2. Is stye harmful to the baby?
A stye during pregnancy is generally not harmful to your baby. It is a localized eyelid infection that does not spread to the fetus. While uncomfortable for the mother, a stye poses minimal risk to your developing baby and can usually be treated safely under medical guidance.
3. What can I take for stye during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, avoid self-medicating for a stye. Use warm compresses several times daily for relief. Do not use over-the-counter antibiotic ointments or pills unless prescribed by your doctor. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication to ensure safety for you and your baby.
4. When is stye worse in pregnancy?
A stye may worsen during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that affect your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. Increased fatigue and stress can also contribute. If you notice your stye getting larger, more painful, or not improving, consult your healthcare provider for appropriate treatment.
5. How long will I have stye during pregnancy?
Most styes during pregnancy resolve within 7 to 10 days with proper home care, such as warm compresses. If the stye persists longer than two weeks, becomes more painful, or shows signs of spreading, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and possible medical treatment.
6. What foods help with stye during pregnancy?
Eating foods rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and zinc, like leafy greens, citrus fruits, carrots, and whole grains, can support your immune system and help your body heal from a stye. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet during pregnancy also promote eye health and overall recovery.
Medical Disclaimer: This website contains general information about conception, pregnancy, pregnancy products and parenting. The information is not complete or comprehensive. You should not rely on the information on this website as an alternative to medical advice from your doctor or healthcare provider. Nothing contained on this web site should be construed nor is intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider. Should you have any healthcare related questions, please call or see your physician or other qualified healthcare provider promptly. Read More- (Link to full disclaimer)