Ophthalmological criteria for choice of optimal mode of delivery in pregnant women with myopia

This review examines the evolution of views and opinions on issues related to the management of pregnancy and childbirth in women with high myopia. Special attention is given to the threat of retinal detachment and its prevention during pregnancy and delivery; the need for improving the diagnosis of retinal abnormalities is also addressed. Our analysis indicates that since the early 1980s, pregnancy associated peripheral vitreochorioretinal dystrophy was considered a leading risk factor for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment during childbirth. Here, we present data on the eye hemodynamics and intraocular pressure in women at the time of delivery. We also discuss current strategies of pregnancy management in women with peripheral vitreochorioretinal dystrophy. In addition, absolute and relative indications for natural delivery in women with high myopia are presented together with ophthalmological requirements for natural delivery.