[Magnesium substitution in pregnancy. A prospective, randomized double-blind study].

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Nutritional Science
• Perinatal Medicine

Background:

• Pregnancy complications such as EPH gestosis, premature birth, and intrauterine growth restriction pose significant risks.
• Magnesium plays a crucial role in physiological processes, and its deficiency during pregnancy may be linked to adverse outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of magnesium aspartate supplementation in improving pregnancy outcomes.
• To assess the impact of magnesium substitution on the incidence of premature births, small-for-date newborns, and EPH gestosis.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 985 pregnant women.
• Participants were assigned to receive either magnesium aspartate (15 mmol/day) or a placebo.
• Outcomes assessed included gestational age at birth, birth weight, and incidence of EPH gestosis.

Main Results:

• Magnesium aspartate group showed a better course of pregnancy compared to the placebo group.
• Significantly fewer premature births (less than 258 days' gestation) were observed in the magnesium group.
• Lower proportions of newborns small for date (less than 2500 g) and with intrauterine retardation were noted in the magnesium-treated group.
• A significant reduction in EPH gestosis cases was observed with magnesium supplementation.
• No serious adverse effects were reported with magnesium treatment.

Conclusions:

• Magnesium aspartate supplementation is effective in improving pregnancy outcomes and reducing the incidence of key complications.
• The findings support the inclusion of magnesium substitution in routine antenatal care protocols.
• Magnesium supplementation offers a safe and beneficial intervention for pregnant women.