What causes preeclampsia?

We don't know what causes preeclampsia, but there are several theories, including:

• Not enough blood getting to the uterus
• Hormonal imbalances affect the size of blood vessels
• Damage or injury to blood vessel linings
• Too little calcium
• Undiagnosed high blood pressure or other conditions, such as diabetes, lupus, sickle cell disease, hyperthyroidism or kidney disease
• Immune system deficiency
• Too little or too much protein in the diet
• Poor diet (not enough fruits and vegetables)
• High levels of body fat
• Too little magnesium and vitamin B6

There is some evidence that vitamin D deficiency may increase risk of preeclampsia. A 2010 study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that vitamin D levels were generally lower in women with early severe preeclampsia compared with those of healthy pregnant women. Talk to your healthcare professional about vitamin D and how to boost your intake with food and/or supplementation.