Stye during pregnancy: understanding and relieving this discomfort

Pregnancy is a period of upheaval for a woman's body. Among the minor ailments that can arise, a stye during pregnancy can be particularly bothersome. What is a stye, what are the possible causes, and how can it be relieved? We cover all of this in the article below.

What is a stye during pregnancy?

A stye is a small swelling on the eyelid. It is characterised by a reddish and painful lump, similar to a small bump. A stye during pregnancy simply refers to a stye appearing whilst pregnant.

Difference between an external stye and an internal stye

There are two types of stye:

The external stye: this is the most common. It affects the edge of the eyelid and stems from an infection or inflammation of the sebaceous glands.

The internal stye: rarer and deeper, it involves the glands located inside the eyelid and also results from an infection.

Causes of a stye during pregnancy

In pregnant women, the causes of a stye can be numerous. Here are some factors that may encourage its appearance:

Hormonal changes

Pregnancy brings about a change in hormone levels in the body, particularly oestrogen and progesterone. These changes can affect the skin and the sebaceous glands, creating conditions favourable to a stye.

Stress

It is no secret that pregnancy can be a source of stress and anxiety. Stress can weaken the immune system and make certain parts of the body more vulnerable, including the eyelids, thus making the appearance of a stye more likely.

Fatigue

Sleep requirements are generally increased during pregnancy. Indeed, the body is working harder to prepare for the baby's arrival. Insufficient sleep can also contribute to a weakened immune system and increase the risk of infection.

How to relieve a stye during pregnancy?

If you are suffering from a stye during your pregnancy, here is some advice to help you find relief:

Adopt good eye hygiene

To prevent infection or its worsening, it is essential to clean the affected area thoroughly. Use a cotton bud dampened with warm water and mild soap to gently clean the edge of the eyelid. Dry with a clean cloth, without rubbing.

Apply warm compresses

Warm compresses can reduce inflammation and help relieve pain as well as itching. Soak a clean piece of gauze or cotton wool in warm water, wring it out and apply to the affected eyelid for 10 minutes. Repeat this several times a day if necessary.

Avoid touching and wearing make-up

Resist the temptation to touch, scratch or burst the stye, as this could spread the infection and worsen the situation. Similarly, avoid wearing make-up or contact lenses until the stye has cleared up.

When to see a doctor?

If your stye does not improve after a few days, it is recommended that you consult a healthcare professional:

if the stye becomes increasingly painful and inflamed,

if you have a fever or unusual symptoms,

if you have had several styes in the past,

or if you are concerned about how the stye is progressing.

A final word

A stye during pregnancy is an inconvenience that can arise whilst pregnant. Although it is generally benign, it is important to take the right steps to relieve it and prevent it from worsening. Do not hesitate to see a doctor if you see no improvement after a few days.