Which specialist performs an antenatal steroid injection?

Antenatal corticosteroids, sometimes called a lung maturity injection, may be considered when there is concern that birth could happen early. The obstetrician assesses your pregnancy, timing, medical history, and possible benefits before recommending treatment. A midwife, nurse, or doctor trained to give injections may administer the medicine, depending on the maternity unit. The obstetric team remains responsible for explaining the plan and arranging any needed follow-up.

Ask which obstetrician is making the recommendation and who will give each dose. Tell the team about diabetes, allergies, medicines, and any previous reaction to injections. Clarify where the injection will be given, what temporary effects to watch for, and how your blood glucose or other condition will be monitored when relevant. Keep the maternity service’s contact details available.

Contact your maternity unit urgently for regular contractions, vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, severe abdominal pain, fever, breathing difficulty, facial swelling, or another sign of a serious allergic reaction after an injection. If you have diabetes, ask promptly about unexpected glucose changes. Do not delay assessment because you have already received the treatment.

Ask why corticosteroids are being recommended now, which clinician will administer them, how the schedule is decided, and what happens if labour begins before the course is complete. Ask who will review you afterward and which symptoms require urgent help.