Pattern of magnesium, selenium and chromium in pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Pregnancy is associated with increased metabolic demands and heightened vulnerability to environmental factors, making adequate micronutrient status essential for optimal maternal and fetal health. This study evaluated the serum concentrations of magnesium (Mg), selenium (Se), and chromium (Cr) among pregnant women. A cross-sectional case-control study was conducted involving 120 pregnant women (test group) and 60 apparently healthy non-pregnant women (control group). Serum concentrations of Mg, Se, and Cr were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS), while data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The results showed that serum Mg (0.661 ± 0.182 mg/L vs. 0.870 ± 0.598 mg/L) and Cr (0.471 mg/L vs. 1.506 ± 0.257 mg/L) concentrations were significantly lower in pregnant women than in the control group (p < 0.05). In contrast, serum Se concentration was significantly higher among pregnant women (0.115 ± 0.012 mg/L) compared with non-pregnant controls (0.050 ± 0.018 mg/L; p < 0.05). The observed reductions in Mg and Cr suggest increased utilization or altered metabolism during pregnancy, whereas the elevated Se concentration may reflect physiological adaptation or dietary influences. These findings indicate that depletion of Mg and Cr may predispose pregnant women to adverse pregnancy outcomes, including pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes mellitus. Routine monitoring of trace element status during pregnancy may facilitate early identification of deficiencies and support appropriate nutritional interventions.