Steroids During Preterm Labor: Why They’re Used and How They Help Your Baby
30 Apr 2025
If you’re experiencing preterm labor (labor before 37 weeks), your doctor may recommend steroid injections to help your baby’s lungs develop. These medications, called antenatal corticosteroids, are proven to reduce complications in premature babies and improve their chances of survival.
Here’s everything you need to know about steroids during preterm labor, including how they work, when they’re given, and potential risks.
Lowers the risk of intraventricular hemorrhage (brain bleeding).
Decreases neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions.
Improves overall survival rates for premature babies.
Dexamethasone – Given as four injections, 12 hours apart. Both are equally effective in helping the baby’s lungs mature.
Insomnia, mood changes, or flushing.
Slight increase in infection risk (though rare).
Possible impact on birth weight (minor effect if steroids are given close to full term). Despite these risks, the benefits of steroids far outweigh the potential downsides when preterm birth is expected.
Signs of preterm labor (regular contractions, water breaking, intense pelvic pressure).
Severe side effects like dizziness, rapid swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Concerns about reduced fetal movement after getting steroids.
Why Are Steroids Given During Preterm Labor?
A baby’s lungs aren’t fully developed until around 37 weeks. If birth happens too early, the baby may struggle to breathe on their own. Antenatal steroids help speed up lung development, reducing the risk of breathing problems and other complications.Key Benefits for Preterm Babies:
Reduces respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) – Helps the lungs produce surfactant, which keeps air sacs open.Lowers the risk of intraventricular hemorrhage (brain bleeding).
Decreases neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions.
Improves overall survival rates for premature babies.
Which Steroids Are Used?
Doctors typically use two types of corticosteroids for preterm labor: Betamethasone – Given as two injections, 24 hours apart.Dexamethasone – Given as four injections, 12 hours apart. Both are equally effective in helping the baby’s lungs mature.
When Are Steroids Given?
- Between 24 and 34 weeks: Strongly recommended if preterm birth is likely.
- At 35-36 weeks: May be considered if there’s a high risk of premature delivery.
- Before 24 weeks: Not usually given, but may be considered in some cases.
Risks & Side Effects of Steroids During Pregnancy
While steroids are generally safe for both mom and baby, some potential side effects include:For Mom:
Increased blood sugar levels – Can temporarily affect women with diabetes or gestational diabetes.Insomnia, mood changes, or flushing.
Slight increase in infection risk (though rare).
For Baby:
Temporary decrease in fetal movements (usually resolves in a day or two).Possible impact on birth weight (minor effect if steroids are given close to full term). Despite these risks, the benefits of steroids far outweigh the potential downsides when preterm birth is expected.
What Happens After Getting Steroids?
- You’ll be monitored closely for labor progression.
- If labor slows down or stops, the steroids will still provide benefits for up to 7 days.
- If labor continues, your doctor will focus on other treatments to support the baby’s health (like magnesium sulfate for neuroprotection).
When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your doctor if you experience:Signs of preterm labor (regular contractions, water breaking, intense pelvic pressure).
Severe side effects like dizziness, rapid swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Concerns about reduced fetal movement after getting steroids.
