Serum Magnesium and Calcium Levels: A Comparative Study Between Pre-Eclamptic and Normotensive Pregnancies

Background: Pre-eclampsia, a significant pregnancy complication, contributes to feto-maternal morbidity and mortality globally. Micronutrient deficiencies, especially calcium and magnesium, are increasingly recognized as potential risk factors for pre-eclampsia, linked to hypertension and other adverse outcomes. Aims and Objective: This study aims to assess serum level of magnesium and calcium in pre-eclamptic pregnancies compared to normotensive pregnancies and to investigate any association between these mineral deficiencies and pre-eclampsia related complications. Materials and Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sardar Patel Medical College, Bikaner. A total of 100 pregnant female in their third trimester, aged 18-35, were enrolled, divided into two groups: 50 with pre-eclampsia (study group) and 50 with normal pregnancies (control group). Serum calcium and magnesium levels were assessed and compared along with demographic and clinical parameters. Results: The pre-eclampsia group had significantly lower mean serum calcium (8.57 mg/dl) and magnesium levels (1.45 mg/dl) than the control group (8.97 mg/dl and 1.87 mg/dl). Elevated blood pressure, higher BMI, increased caesarean delivery rates, and lower neonatal birth weights were noted in the pre-eclampsia group. Even though pre-eclampsia was associated with a higher prevalence of problems like intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), the findings were statistically insignificant. Conclusion: The results suggest a link between reduced serum levels of calcium and magnesium and the risk of pre-eclampsia. Regular monitoring of these serum levels in high-risk pregnancies may offer a preventive strategy. These results necessitate additional investigation into potential prevention of pre-eclampsia using calcium and magnesium supplements.