Maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes associated with long ‐term use of corticosteroids during pregnancy
AbstractKey content
Antenatal corticosteroid use is strongly associated with reduced neonatal mortality and morbidity arising from preterm delivery.
Betamethasone and dexamethasone are the corticosteroids of choice to enhance fetal lung maturation in this situation.
Maternal medical conditions such as autoimmune diseases, asthma and allergies may necessitate long‐term use of corticosteroids during pregnancy.
The maternal, fetal and neonatal effects in pregnant women using chronic corticosteroids are reviewed. The question as to whether the standard course of antenatal corticosteroids is necessary if preterm delivery is anticipated is discussed.Learning objectives
To review the production of endogenous corticosteroids in pregnancy.
To be aware of the effect of chronic corticosteroid use on fetal lung maturity during pregnancy.
To appreciate the maternal, fetal and neonatal effects of exogenous corticosteroid use in pregnancy.Ethical issues
Is the fluorinated antenatal corticosteroids course given for preterm delivery indicated in women using corticosteroids on a chronic basis?
What are the fetal and neonatal outcomes of chronic corticosteroid use by the pregnant woman?
How should women taking chronic corticosteroids be managed?
Source: The Obstetrician and Gynaecologist - Category: OBGYN Authors: Doua AlSaad,
Stephen Lindow,
Ben H Lee,
Asma Tarannum,
Palli Valapila Abdulrouf Tags: Review Source Type: research
More News: Allergy | Allergy & Immunology | Asthma | Autoimmune Disease | Corticosteroid Therapy | Dexamethasone | Learning | Medical Ethics | OBGYN | Perinatology & Neonatology | Pregnancy | Universities & Medical Training | Women