What does an antenatal steroid injection treat?

When early delivery is considered possible, corticosteroids cross the placenta and support development of the baby's lungs. This can help the newborn adapt to breathing after birth. The injection is supportive preparation for the baby; it does not stop labour, seal a hole in the membranes or cure the cause of early delivery.

It may be discussed with preterm labour or premature rupture of membranes, depending on the pregnancy stage, the likelihood of birth soon and your individual circumstances. The maternity team balances possible benefits with factors such as infection risk and blood glucose changes.

The medicine is given by injection, usually as a planned course decided by the obstetric team. Tell the team if you have diabetes, an infection, medicine allergies or previous reactions to steroids. Continue other care advised for the reason early birth is being considered, and ask when your glucose may need checking.

Do not delay contacting the maternity unit because an injection has been planned. The timing can change if labour, bleeding, infection or another urgent concern develops.

Contact your maternity unit urgently for regular contractions, fluid leaking, vaginal bleeding, fever, worsening abdominal pain or reduced fetal movement. Severe breathlessness, fainting or feeling suddenly very unwell also needs emergency assessment.

Ask why the injection is recommended, how it fits with your birth plan, whether your blood glucose needs monitoring, and what symptoms should prompt immediate review.