In general, a wrongful pregnancy action is a lawsuit brought by the parents of a healthy but unexpected, unplanned, or unwanted child, against a medical provider for negligence leading to conception or pregnancy.

The claim usually arises after a negligently performed sterilization procedure. Such claims have also been predicated on the failure to properly diagnose a pregnancy or perform an abortion; negligence in the insertion or removal of an intrauterine birth-control device, or in dispensing contraception prescriptions; or the failure of a contraceptive pill or a condom.

Laws vary from state to state and not all states recognize a wrongful pregnancy claim or cause of action.

In Iowa, wrongful pregnancy, also known as wrongful conception, is a recognized cause of action. This type of lawsuit is typically brought by parents who have an unplanned, unexpected, or unwanted child due to the alleged negligence of a medical provider. The negligence might involve a failed sterilization procedure, misdiagnosis of a pregnancy, improper performance of an abortion, errors related to intrauterine devices (IUDs), or mistakes in prescribing or dispensing birth control. Iowa courts have allowed recovery of damages in wrongful pregnancy cases, which may include the costs of the unsuccessful medical procedure, pregnancy, childbirth, and sometimes the costs of raising the child. However, the damages awarded can vary, and the recovery for child-rearing costs is often subject to debate and depends on the specifics of the case and the court's decision.