Oxytocinase (EC 3.4.11.3) activity was determined in 80 amniotic fluid samples obtained from 40 normotensive primigravidas (median age 27 years) and 40 primigravidas (median age 29 years) with pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia between 32 and 39 weeks of gestation. The enzyme activity was significantly lower in preeclampsia than in normal pregnancy with matched gestations (p < 0.01). Considering the possible involvement of vasopressin and angiotensin II in preeclampsia, it is suggested that the enzyme which degrades these pressor hormones may play a role in the pathogenesis of hypertensive pregnancy.