What is a common side effect of magnesium sulfate administration during labor?

Magnesium sulfate is widely used in maternity care, particularly for its tocolytic properties, to prevent preterm labor, and to manage eclampsia and seizure prophylaxis in pregnant women. One of the notable physiological effects of magnesium sulfate is its ability to cause vasodilation, which leads to lowered blood pressure. This occurs because magnesium acts as a smooth muscle relaxant, helping to dilate blood vessels and subsequently decrease peripheral vascular resistance.

Lowered blood pressure can be a significant consideration in patients receiving magnesium sulfate, and while it may be beneficial for certain conditions, it is essential to monitor the patient closely for potential hypotension and its related symptoms. In contrast, options such as increased energy levels or headaches are not commonly associated with magnesium sulfate, and constipation is not a recognized side effect of this medication in labor contexts. Thus, the correct response regarding a common side effect of magnesium sulfate is indeed the lowering of blood pressure.