Antenatal corticosteroids to reduce neonatal morbidity and mortality (Green-top Guideline No. 74) The aim of this guideline is to provide evidence-based recommendations on the use of antenatal corticosteroids in women at risk of preterm birth or undergoing caesarean birth at term.
COVID disclaimer: This guideline was developed as part of the regular programme of Green-top Guidelines, as outlined in our document Developing a Green-top Guideline: Guidance for developers (PDF), and prior to the emergence of COVID-19.
Maternal administration of antenatal corticosteroids before anticipated preterm birth is one of the most important interventions to improve neonatal outcomes.
They are effective in reducing neonatal respiratory morbidity and other complications of prematurity.
The aim of this guideline is to provide evidence-based recommendations on the use of antenatal corticosteroids in women at risk of preterm birth or undergoing caesarean birth at term.
An infographic on this topic has been developed by the Consortium for the Study of Pregnancy Treatments (Co-OPT) at the University of Edinburgh. You can view the infographic here.
This guideline was developed as part of the regular programme of Green-top Guidelines, as outlined in our document Developing a Green-top Guideline: Guidance for developers (PDF), and prior to the emergence of COVID-19.
Please note that the information provided in this update will be considered for update by the RCOG Guidelines Committee 3 years after publication, with an intermediate assessment of the need to update 2 years after publication.
Developers' declarations of interest
Available on request.