Could Everyday Chemicals Raise Blood Pressure in Pregnancy?

You Should Know: High blood pressure (aka hypertension) can be particularly dangerous in pregnancy, both for the mother and the baby. Along with potentially serious effects on the mother, hypertension also increases the risk of having a preterm baby with low birth weight. Hypertension in pregnancy is becoming more common. Rates of high blood pressure in pregnancy rose 73% between 2016 and 2024, according to a 2026 CDC report. A growing body of research points to a link between exposure to environmental chemicals and hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. 
 
Going Deeper: Certain health conditions (like diabetes, existing hypertension, and obesity) increase the likelihood of developing hypertensive disorders in pregnancy, but research indicates exposure to harmful “forever” or endocrine-disrupting chemicals in personal care products, household items, food, and water may contribute. Researchers have identified phthalates in particular — a common ingredient in shampoos, lotions, and similar products (especially ones with fragrance).

Takeaway: Research hasn’t determined that the chemicals themselves are responsible for hypertension. Instead, they may increase the chance of developing a condition that contributes to hypertension, like obesity and insulin resistance. The research is still developing, but experts recommend reducing the use of products with phthalates during pregnancy to minimize this risk.