Evaluation of Serum Magnesium Level and Maternal Outcomes in Antenatal Women

Background: Magnesium is one of the essential minerals which has multiple biochemical functions. Magnesium deficiency during pregnancy can lead to adverse outcomes like preterm birth, pre-eclampsia, intra-uterine growth retardation (IUGR), and adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. Aim and Objectives: The present study was undertaken to determine serum magnesium levels in antenatal women and evaluate maternal outcomes namely, preeclampsia and preterm birth. Material and Methods: The study was prospective, observational and Cross-sectional which included 220 pregnant women attending outpatient department for antenatal care. Serum magnesium levels were determined at 24-26 weeks of pregnancy and were divided into Group 1 women with low magnesium levels and Group 2 with normal magnesium levels. Maternal outcomes of both Group 1 and Group 2 were studied after 10 weeks or at the time of delivery, whichever was earlier. Results: Serum magnesium levels in antenatal women were 1.79 ± 0.16mg/dl (Mean ± SD). The prevalence of magnesium deficiency in antenatal women was 6.8%. In Group I, out of 15 women with hypomagnesemia (<1.6 mg/dl), 3 women developed preeclampsia and none of them had preterm labour. In Group II, out of 205 women with normal magnesium (>1.6 mg/dl), 39 women developed preeclampsia whereas 35 women had preterm labour. Conclusion: Serum Magnesium levels need to be evaluated in all antenatal women and may predict maternal outcomes.