FETOMATERNAL OUTCOMES OF MAGNESIUM SULPHATE ADMINISTRATION IN PATIENTS WITH ECLAMPSIA

Abstract

Objective:
To determine the fetomaternal outcomes associated with magnesium sulphate (MgSO₄) in eclamptic patients.
Methodology:
A descriptive longitudinal study was executed at Kulsum Bai Valika Hospital, Karachi during the period of 2023–2024, encompassing 149 eclamptic women within the age group of 18–40 years with gestational age ≥24 weeks. Magnesium sulphate was administered in accordance with established loading and maintenance regimens. Maternal and foetal outcomes which included acute renal failure, HELLP syndrome, pulmonary oedema, low birth weight, stillbirth, and birth asphyxia were noted. Data were analysed using SPSS version 26 with Chi-square test (p ≤ 0.05).
Results:
Among 149 eclamptic women with a mean age of 27.88 years, magnesium sulphate therapy was associated with reduced rates of acute renal failure (6.0%), HELLP syndrome (4.7%), and pulmonary oedema (5.4%). Foetal outcomes included low birth weight (26.8%), stillbirth (22.1%), and birth asphyxia (41.6%), with poorer outcomes linked to earlier gestational age and unbooked status.
Conclusion:
Magnesium sulphate is found to be an effective treatment to eclampsia management, contributing to favourable maternal and neonatal outcomes. Although there are certain complications including cases of renal failure and birth asphyxia, the results were significantly improved in the booked patients and those born with later gestational age. These results affirm that to mitigate fetomaternal morbidity in eclamptic pregnancies, MgSO₄ should be administered timely and enhanced antenatal services offered.
Keywords:
Eclampsia, Foetal outcomes, Low birth weight, Magnesium sulphate, Pregnancy complications