FirstCry Parenting

What Is Milk of Magnesia?

This osmotic remedy works by drawing water into the intestines and softening the stool, making bowel movements easy. The original form of milk of magnesia usually helps a person produce a bowel movement within a timeframe of half an hour to six hours. Milk of magnesia may also help with sunburn and acne, though the actual proof is significantly lacking.

Often pregnant women face constipation due to a surge in hormones in progesterone which is responsible for the relaxation of muscles. This causes the intestinal muscles to slow down as well, thereby delaying the process of digestion. Excess iron derived from the supplements consumed also contributes to the same. Milk of Magnesia is a reliable friend to relieve expecting mothers of gut disturbances. Hence, call your doctor if you feel uneasy or on account of any unusual symptoms after consuming the milk of magnesia. However, it is to be noted that this is a temporary solution.

Is Milk of Magnesia Safe During Pregnancy?

Are you anxious about the risks of taking milk of magnesia during pregnancy? To your relief, generally, it is safe to consume Milk of Magnesia during pregnancy. That being said, it is extremely important to double-check the same with your gynecologist. The laxative can interact with the medications you’re currently using. For those who have diets with little magnesium or any kidney diseases, consumption of this laxative is unhealthy.

Ensure you inform the doctor of any specific allergies you have, as the same can be found in the milk of magnesia ingredient list. It can reduce the effectiveness of certain medications or increase the risk of experiencing side effects. If there is no effect even after 6 hours of taking it, inform the doctor. The delay in reaction could be due to an underlying health implication it has caused. These should be more than good reasons to get an approving nod from the doctor before hurriedly buying it from a drug store.

Safe Milk of Magnesia for Pregnant Women – Types and Dosage

Now that you know that it is safe, knowing the safe consumption limits is imperative. 

• Milk of magnesia is found in tablet, liquid, and chewable forms.
• It can be purchased from drug stores either in regular strength liquid or concentrated liquid.
• The chewable form requires chewing before swallowing, and the concentrated one needs water.
• Certain variants need to be consumed with food while others without it.
• How often can you take milk of magnesia during pregnancy? Typically it is taken as a single dose at night.
• However, it is alright to split into two or more doses and take it daily.
• Some brands recommend one to four tablespoons of the liquid version of magnesia milk and an 8-ounce glass of water per dose.
• It is advised to follow the recommended dosage mentioned in the package unless specifically mentioned.
• Prescribed dosage, if any, varies based on the age and severity of the problem faced.
• People should not take the laxative for more than seven days. In case the problem persists, talk to your doctor.
• Regardless of your consumption pattern, ensure that you do not breach the maximum daily amount in a day. In case of any difficulty, seek immediate medical attention.

Benefits of Taking Milk of Magnesia in Pregnancy

Is milk of magnesia good for pregnant women? If yes, how beneficial is the milk of magnesia while pregnant for constipation?

• This poses less risk than a stimulant laxative.
• It is known to relieve constipation within six hours.
• Soothes heartburn symptoms and eases a sour stomach when used as an antacid.

Side Effects of Milk of Magnesia While Pregnant

There is no empirical evidence stating the degree of safety of milk of magnesia for pregnant women. Despite getting a yes from the doc, a few commonly observed downsides are:

• It triggers side effects like diarrhea, cramping, nausea, bloating, and excessive thirst. It is a must to stay hydrated to prevent these side effects from taking a toll on your health.
• An imbalance in electrolyte levels is observed on excessive intake.
• Disturbances in heart rhythm are seen. A slow heartbeat is the most frequently seen one.
• Difficulty faced in daily bowel movements to a stage of excessive dependence on laxatives.
• If you rely too heavily on the milk of magnesia, you may experience dehydration— which, in turn, triggers uterine muscle contractions.
• Skin flushing, drowsiness, and lightheadedness are a few other side effects.

What Are the Complications of Having Milk of Magnesia When Pregnant?

It should not be consumed in dosages exceeding the maximum daily amount. An overdose can lead to severe health implications and associated health risks. Regular use can lead to complications such as magnesium poisoning or hypermagnesemia. Those who have kidney disease or diabetes face the risk of electrolyte imbalance. A small amount of it can enter the breastmilk, whose other effects are unknown.

Do Milk of Magnesia Cause Congenital Disabilities?

FDA does not recommend the intake of milk for magnesia during pregnancy. It is not known to cause any congenital disability or other risks to the fetus. Prolonged usage of the same is not recommended as it can lead to extreme dehydration. 

When to Consult Your Doctor

A doctor’s helping hand is always beneficial when it comes to pregnancy. Do not hesitate to call them even at the slightest trigger of symptoms.

• When having an upset stomach or trouble with bodily functions, seek the advice of a doctor before buying this OVC remedy.
• Consult a doctor when there is no indication of bowel movements even after 6 hours of consumption.
• On feeling any allergies or unusual symptoms, do not hesitate to rush.
• Please ensure there is no overdosage as it can impair your health.
• Get the necessary advice before moving ahead to detect blood in the stool or not getting relief after continuous consumption.

Pregnancy is a joyous occasion, and both the mother’s and baby’s health is of utmost importance. It comes with its share of discomforts, so we are here for you. Doctors, dieticians, and those who love you ensure you always feel healthy and comfortable. Now that you know about the milk of magnesia in detail, what else could trouble you?

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