Magnesium sulfate, better known as epsom salt, has long been admired for its calming and muscle-relaxing effects. But could it also help ease one of life’s most intense experiences—labor?
That’s the question explored in a new systematic review and meta-analysis that examined whether vaginal magnesium sulfate could reduce pain, speed up active labor, and improve cervical readiness compared to standard care.
At its core, the research looks at how one essential mineral—magnesium—can support the body’s ability to relax and function, even in the most demanding moments.
What The Researchers Did
The authors conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) testing vaginal magnesium sulfate during labor. They searched several databases without language or location limits and identified seven RCTs that met their criteria.
Each study was carefully reviewed for bias and rated for overall evidence quality using standardized tools. This wasn’t a casual review—it was a data-driven look at magnesium sulfate’s potential role in labor management.
What They Found
Cervical Changes (Dilation And Effacement)
Two hours after application, participants who received vaginal magnesium sulfate showed significant improvements in cervical dilation and effacement. On average, dilation increased by more than two centimeters compared to the control groups, and cervical softening improved as well.
This suggests that magnesium sulfate helps the cervix relax and “open up,” an essential step for smoother labor progress.
Shorter Active Labor And Less Pain
Women who received magnesium sulfate experienced active labor phases about an hour and a half shorter than those in the control groups. They also reported lower pain levels, describing a more tolerable overall experience.
In short, magnesium sulfate seemed to make labor faster and less painful—an encouraging outcome with potential implications for maternal care.
Strengths And Limitations
While the results are promising, the researchers emphasized that more studies are needed.
The small number of trials, differences in dosage, and variations among participants make it too early to draw firm conclusions. Larger, well-controlled studies are essential to confirm safety and effectiveness.
Why This Matters—And The Link To Epsom Salt Baths
So what does vaginal magnesium sulfate have to do with your favorite epsom salt soak? The connection lies in magnesium.
Though the study focused on a medical setting, it highlights magnesium’s ability to relax muscles and ease discomfort—the same reason many people enjoy epsom salt baths at home.
Try A Relaxing Epsom Salt Bath
If you’d like to experience magnesium’s calming benefits, try an epsom salt soak. Our Sitz Bath Soak at Better Bath Better Body blends epsom salt with lavender, juniper, and niaouli essential oils for extra relaxation.
Fill your tub with warm water, add 1–2 cups of epsom salt, stir to dissolve, and soak for 15–20 minutes. Let the magnesium work through your skin to ease tension and restore balance.
Final Thoughts
This research adds to growing evidence that magnesium sulfate is remarkable for relaxation and relief—even in something as intense as childbirth. While more study is needed, the message is clear: magnesium helps the body unwind, recover, and restore.
Click here to shop our premium bath and foot soaks, and enjoy the soothing epsom salt bath benefits for yourself.
