The Hormonal Link to Ocular Disease in Women

Neda Gioia, OD, CNS, FMCP, FOWNS, reviewed how levels of individual hormones and the balance between them help regulate tear production, inflammation, wound healing, lipid secretion, intraocular pressure (IOP), and neuroprotection, and therefore can result in a higher burden of dry eye, glaucoma, or retinal disease in women.

By
Veronica Daub
June 17, 2026
5 min

Optometric Management

Objective:

To explore the relationship between hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause and their implications for ocular diseases in women.

Approach:

Key Findings:

Women experience a higher burden of ocular diseases due to hormonal changes.
Dry eye disease is significantly more prevalent in women over 50, linked to hormonal imbalances.
Menopause may be a risk factor for glaucoma, with earlier menopause associated with increased risk.
Nutritional shifts during menopause can impact ocular health, necessitating dietary considerations.
A multidisciplinary approach is essential for comprehensive care of women's ocular health.

Interpretation:

The findings underscore the importance of understanding hormonal influences on ocular health in women, particularly during menopause.

Limitations:

The article does not provide extensive data on the specific studies referenced regarding hormonal impacts on ocular diseases.
Further research is needed to fully understand the hormonal impacts on ocular diseases.