Magnesium supplementation in obstetrics and gynaecology: A brief review

Abstract

Magnesium (Mg), is the second most important intracellular cation. It has been recognized as a cofactor for more than 325 enzymatic reactions involved in a) protein, DNA and RNA synthesis, b) fat, carbohydrates and protein metabolism, and c) cellular energy production and storage. It is essential for the regulation of muscular contraction, blood pressure, insulin metabolism, cardiac excitability, vasomotor tone, nerve transmission and neuromuscular conduction. On these grounds, the possible therapeutic properties of Mg have been investigated in almost every medical field includ-ing Obstetrics and Gynecology, namely exploring oral supple-mentation. The aim of this study is to briefly review existing evidences on the clinical effects of Mg treatment in perinatology as well as in non-pregnant women. During pregnancy, there is a 15% decrease of Mg circulating levels together with a concomitant 25% increase of urinary excretion. Mg supplementation on blood pressure had few impact while it is useful for the alleviation of uterine hyper-activity. Parenteral administration is a standard for the prophylaxis of Eclampsia as well as for neural protection of early preterm baby. A number of studies highlighted a positive correlation between oral magnesium and relief/ prevention of premenstrual syndrome, dysmenorrhea, and postmenopausal symptoms, thus suggesting that magnesium supplementation may repre-sent a valid treatment for these conditions.