Should antenatal steroids be given for preterm deliveries?

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2021-03-23 05:00

Australia; WA

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Administering antenatal corticosteroids (ANC) for preterm delivery could reduce the need for respiratory support in bubs, according to a review by Aussie researchers. The use of ANCs for mums expecting preterm births has been controversial, but the review found moderate-quality evidence to recommend its use. They found ANC exposure reduced the need for respiratory support as well as reducing the need for resuscitation at birth. On the other hand, exposure to ANC did increase the risk of hypoglycemia in these babies, so researchers say further studies are required to fully inform recommendations for pre-term birth, and in the meantime, preterm bubs should be closely monitored, especially for hypoglycemia following ANCs.