The cause of preeclampsia is not fully understood and likely involves both fetal and maternal factors. Abnormal formation of the placenta (which is influenced by genetics, the environment, and the parent’s immune system) may play a central role in preeclampsia development. The placenta in people with preeclampsia often has narrow blood vessels that do not supply enough oxygen and nutrients to the placenta. In response, the parent’s body releases inflammatory cells and chemicals that can affect blood pressure and organs, causing damage.[1][2][3]
What causes preeclampsia?
Written by:
Fact-checked
by:
•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
The cause of preeclampsia is not fully understood, but it likely involves both fetal and maternal factors, particularly abnormal placenta formation, which is influenced by genetics, environment, and the immune system. This abnormality can lead to insufficient oxygen and nutrient supply, which triggers the parent's body to release inflammatory responses that affect blood pressure and organ function.