Burst blood vessels underneath and inside your eyes after you give birth can make you look like you've gone 10 rounds in the ring. And you have!
But take heart in knowing that many women have bloodshot eyes postpartum, and this symptom is very temporary.
What causes bloodshot eyes postpartum?
Bloodshot eyes after giving birth are caused by the tiny capillaries, or blood vessels, in your eyes bursting while you pushed during labor and delivery.
How long do bloodshot eyes postpartum last?
Yes, your eyes look a tad scary now — but they'll start to heal right away and should clear up completely in a week or two. Remember, your baby thinks you're gorgeous, no matter what!
What can you do about bloodshot eyes postpartum?
Your bloodshot eyes will get better on their own, so no medical treatment is necessary and you shouldn't use over-the-counter eye drops to reduce the redness.
But there are some things you can do about your bloodshot eyes while you're waiting for them to clear up:
- Apply cold compresses several times a day for 10 minutes at a time to help speed recovery.
- If you feel self-conscious in public, channel your inner paparazzi-dodging celeb and sport a pair of glam sunglasses.
When to call the doctor about bloodshot eyes postpartum
If your bloodshot eyes don't clear up in a couple of weeks or you're bruising or have burst capillaries on other parts of your body, call your doctor to be sure it's not a sign of something more serious.
But rest assured that bloodshot eyes are a very common, and very temporary, postpartum symptom — and another reminder of what a trooper you were in the delivery room!
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