🍼 What is Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)?

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ROP is a potentially blinding eye disease that affects premature babies. It happens when abnormal blood vessels grow in the retina (the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye). Early detection and treatment can prevent vision loss or blindness.

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📋 Why Is ROP Screening Important?

• In India, many babies are born premature or with low birth weight, putting them at high risk of ROP.

• ROP usually shows no early symptoms, so screening is the only way to detect it.

• Timely screening and treatment can save your baby’s eyesight.

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👶 Which Babies Need ROP Screening (as per Indian Guidelines)?

ROP screening is recommended for:

Babies with:

• Birth weight less than 2000 grams

• Gestational age less than 34 weeks

Also, some babies above these limits may be at risk and should be screened if they:

• Received oxygen therapy for more than 5 days

• Had serious problems like sepsis, blood transfusions, breathing issues, or poor weight gain

The neonatologist or pediatrician will decide if your baby needs screening.

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🕒 When Should the First Screening Be Done?

• For babies born before 28 weeks or weighing under 1200 grams: by 2–3 weeks after birth

• For others: by 4 weeks after birth

Never delay the first screening, even if the baby still seems small or unwell.

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👁️ How Is the ROP Screening Done?

• An eye doctor (ophthalmologist) who is trained in ROP checks your baby’s eyes.

• Eye drops are used to dilate (enlarge) the pupils.

• The doctor uses a special instrument to examine the retina.

• The procedure takes a few minutes and may cause brief discomfort, but it is safe.

• Do not feed the baby for 30 minutes before examination,

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✅ What If ROP Is Found?

• Mild ROP often improves on its own and just needs monitoring.

• Severe ROP may need treatment to prevent blindness. Treatment options include:

  • Laser therapy

  • Anti-VEGF injections

  • Surgery (rarely)

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📆 What About Follow-Up Visits?

• Regular follow-ups are needed until:

  • The retina is fully developed

  • Or the ROP has resolved/stabilized

• Even if the first screening is normal, repeat exams are often needed.

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🏥 What Should Parents Do?

• Ensure screening is done on time – usually in the NICU or by referral.

• Keep all follow-up appointments, even after the baby goes home.

• Ask the doctor:

  • “Has my baby had an ROP screening?”

  • “When is the next eye checkup due?”