Role of magnesium in pregnancy

Abstract

The importance of magnesium in pregnancy has been emphasised by several studies. Magnesium is considered a membrane-stabilizing ion and a permeability regulator acting at an intracellular level which intervenes in the oxidative phosphorylation and oxidation reduction processes as well as in enzymatic synthesis and activity. The authors performed a double-blind study in which 15 mmol of magnesium or placebo were administered to the treatment and control groups respectively. There were more cases admitted to hospital in the control group than in that treated with magnesium. Even if there is not a large body of data which supports improved fetus development as a result of magnesium supplementation during pregnancy, the authors suggest that pregnant women with a high risk of gestosis and premature labour should receive additional magnesium.