From the Guidelines
Magnesium citrate is not recommended as a first-line treatment for constipation during pregnancy due to potential risks of electrolyte imbalances and dehydration. The use of magnesium citrate during pregnancy should be approached with caution, and alternative treatments should be considered first. According to the latest clinical practice update on pregnancy-related gastrointestinal and liver disease 1, constipation in pregnant persons can be managed with dietary fiber, lactulose, and polyethylene glycol–based laxatives.
Some key points to consider when managing constipation during pregnancy include:
- Increasing dietary fiber intake to the recommended daily amount of approximately 30 g/d to promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation 1
- Consuming an adequate amount of fluids, particularly water, to help soften stools and ease bowel movements 1
- Using bulk-forming agents, such as psyllium husk or methylcellulose, which are safe to administer in pregnancy due to the lack of systemic absorption 1
- Avoiding stimulant laxatives, as safety data on these medications are conflicting 1
If constipation becomes severe during pregnancy, healthcare providers might recommend safer alternatives like docusate sodium (Colace) or occasional use of milk of magnesia before considering magnesium citrate. It is essential to consult with a prenatal healthcare provider before taking any medication during pregnancy, as they can provide personalized recommendations based on the specific health situation and pregnancy status 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
IF PREGNANT OR BREAST-FEEDING ask health professional before use. The use of magnesium citrate during pregnancy is not explicitly stated as safe in the FDA drug label.
- It is recommended to consult a health professional before using magnesium citrate if pregnant or breast-feeding 2.
From the Research
Magnesium Citrate During Pregnancy
- Magnesium citrate is a form of magnesium supplementation that has been studied for its potential benefits during pregnancy 3, 4.
- A 2014 study published in The Cochrane database of systematic reviews found that magnesium supplementation, including magnesium citrate, may reduce the risk of fetal growth restriction and pre-eclampsia, and increase birthweight 3.
- Another study published in 2013 in Archives of gynecology and obstetrics found that magnesium supplementation as citrate prevented an increase in diastolic blood pressure during the last weeks of pregnancy 4.
- A 2022 meta-analysis published in Biological trace element research found that oral magnesium supplementation, including magnesium citrate, significantly reduced the risk of preeclampsia in pregnant women 5.
Safety and Efficacy
- The 2014 study found that magnesium supplementation was associated with significantly fewer babies with an Apgar score less than seven at five minutes, and fewer cases of meconium-stained liquor and late fetal heart decelerations 3.
- However, the study also found that magnesium supplementation was associated with a possible increased risk of neonatal death prior to hospital discharge, although this result should be interpreted with caution 3.
- The 2013 study found that magnesium supplementation as citrate was well-tolerated and did not have any significant adverse effects on the mother or the fetus 4.
Comparison to Other Forms of Magnesium
- The 2014 study found that different forms of magnesium supplementation, including magnesium oxide, magnesium gluconate, and magnesium aspartate, had varying effects on pregnancy outcomes 3.
- However, the study did not find any significant differences in the effects of magnesium citrate compared to other forms of magnesium supplementation 3.
Constipation Prevention
- A 2012 study published in World journal of gastroenterology found that dietary fiber intake, including magnesium citrate, can increase stool frequency in patients with constipation 6.
- However, the study did not find any significant differences in stool consistency, treatment success, laxative use, and painful defecation between the treatment and placebo groups 6.