Written by the Progyny Editorial Team. Reviewed by the Progyny Clinical Team — April 2026.
Preeclampsia is high blood pressure that starts during pregnancy or after childbirth. It’s one of the most common pregnancy complications.
One of the risk factors for preeclampsia is in vitro fertilization (IVF). Let’s talk about what the research says and how you can partner with your healthcare team to stay safe.
Why IVF may raise preeclampsia risk
Studies have found that pregnancies with IVF have higher rates of preeclampsia than pregnancies without IVF. The risk appears to be higher when a donor egg is used.
We aren’t sure exactly why, but there may be a few reasons. For one thing, people using IVF are more likely to have other risk factors for preeclampsia, such as:
- Being 35 or older
- First-time pregnancy
- Having conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome
Some experts think that the high hormone levels used in IVF may affect the placenta. (Preeclampsia is related to issues with the placenta and its blood vessels.)
Using a donor egg may raise the risk further. One reason may be that the body has an immune response when something new enters the body. And this immune response may affect the placenta.
What about other types of fertility treatments?
Intrauterine insemination (IUI, also called artificial insemination) does not appear to raise preeclampsia risk. With IUI, sperm is placed directly in the uterus to help increase the chance of pregnancy.
Using donor sperm in IUI may lead to a small increase in risk. This may be because it causes an immune response that may affect the placenta.
Your healthcare team will support you.
Your healthcare provider knows about your personal situation, and they will help you take steps to stay safe.
One of the best things you can do to protect yourself?
Go to your pregnancy and postpartum checkups. Routine blood pressure checks and urine tests will give your provider important clues about your health.
Your provider will guide you through other steps to manage your risk. You’ll work together on the plan that’s right for you, and you can always ask anything that’s on your mind. Your Progyny Care Advocate is here to provide personalized support, as well.
Explore related topics in this series:
- Preeclampsia: Get informed to stay safe
- Blood pressure: Get measured at every visit
- My partner is at risk for preeclampsia: How can I help?
Disclaimer: The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance.