Most Women Don't Recognize Dry Eye as a Symptom of Perimenopause and Menopause, New Bausch + Lomb Survey Finds

• Only 14% of peri-, menopausal and post-menopausal women recognize dry eye as a menopause-related symptom.
• 78% of women were surprised to learn that dry eye is a symptom of perimenopause or menopause.
• Women experiencing dry eye reported impacts on everyday activities including reading, screen use, driving and productivity.
• Findings underscore the need for greater awareness of the connection between menopause and eye health.

VAUGHAN, Ontario--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Bausch + Lomb Corporation (NYSE/TSX: BLCO), a leading global eye health company dedicated to helping people see better to live better, today announced findings from a new survey highlighting a significant awareness gap around dry eye and its association with perimenopause and menopause. The survey found that dry eye remains one of the least recognized symptoms experienced during these stages of life.

According to the survey, only 14% of peri-, menopausal and post-menopausal women recognize dry eye as a menopause-related symptom, compared to 79% who recognize hot flashes. Additionally, 78% of women were surprised to learn that dry eye is a symptom of perimenopause or menopause.

"Dry eye symptoms can have a meaningful impact on everyday activities and quality of life, yet they are often not associated with perimenopause and menopause," said Mayssa Attar, Ph.D., senior vice president, Consumer and Pharmaceutical Research & Development, Bausch + Lomb. "The survey findings highlight an opportunity to increase understanding of how eye health can be affected during these stages of life and encourage women experiencing symptoms to speak with an eye care professional."

Hormonal changes that occur during perimenopause and menopause can affect tear production, tear quality and tear evaporation, contributing to dry eye symptoms such as burning, irritation, fluctuating vision and a feeling of discomfort. Among women who experience dry eye symptoms during perimenopause, menopause or post-menopause, 80% said the symptom came as a surprise.

The survey also highlighted the impact that dry eye symptoms can have on everyday life. Among peri-, menopausal and post-menopausal women who experience dry eye:

• 58% reported difficulty reading
• 53% reported difficulty using screens
• 26% reported difficulty driving
• 17% reported reduced productivity

Beyond awareness of dry eye symptoms, many women reported challenges navigating perimenopause and menopause. More than 43% said managing their symptoms is overwhelming, while more than 40% said they don't know where to start when it comes to managing their peri- or menopausal symptoms.

"Given how frequently dry eye symptoms are overlooked during perimenopause and menopause, these findings are an important reminder that eye health deserves to be part of the conversation," said Neda Gioia, OD, CNS, IFMCP, FOWNS, and founder, Integrative Vision, Shrewsbury, New Jersey. "Recognizing symptoms early can help women seek appropriate care and explore management options that may improve comfort and quality of life."

Bausch + Lomb offers a comprehensive portfolio of products and solutions designed to address a wide range of patient needs, including nutritional supplements, over-the-counter eye drops, prescription treatments and diagnostic technologies. Through continued innovation, education and awareness efforts, the company is committed to helping patients and eye care professionals better understand and manage dry eye symptoms.

For more information about dry eye symptoms, risk factors and available product and treatment options, visit www.KnowYourDryEye.com.

About the Survey

The 2026 Bausch + Lomb (Peri)Menopause Survey was conducted via Suzy among 402 women ages 30-80+ who are perimenopausal, menopausal or post-menopausal.

About Dry Eyes

Dry eyes occur when the eyes do not make enough or the right type of tears. Dry eyes are uncomfortable and can feel different to different people. Common symptoms include pain, dryness, irritation, burning, itching, grittiness, excessive blinking, light sensitivity and blurry vision. Dry eye symptoms and their underlying causes can vary significantly from person to person. Over time, if left untreated, dry eye symptoms can become more severe and impact eye health and vision.¹

About Bausch + Lomb

Our mission is simple – we help people see better to live better, all over the world. For nearly two centuries we’ve evolved with the changing needs of patients and customers, and our commitment to innovation and improving the standard of care in eye health has never been stronger. From contact lenses to prescription products, over-the-counter options, surgical devices and more, we’re turning bold ideas into better outcomes through passion, perseverance and purpose. Learn more at www.bausch.com and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X and YouTube.

References

1. Optometric Association. “Dry Eye.” https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/dry-eye. Accessed August 15, 2026.

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