antenatal corticosteroids
Steroid medications given to pregnant women to accelerate fetal lung maturation before preterm delivery.
Full Definition
Antenatal corticosteroids are synthetic steroid medications, typically betamethasone or dexamethasone, administered to women at risk for preterm delivery between 24-34 weeks of gestation. These medications cross the placenta and accelerate fetal lung maturation by promoting surfactant production and structural lung development. The standard regimen involves two intramuscular injections given 24 hours apart. Antenatal corticosteroids significantly reduce the incidence and severity of respiratory distress syndrome, intraventricular hemorrhage, and neonatal death in preterm infants.
Usage
Usage note: Specify gestational age and indication; distinguish from postnatal steroid use.
In Context
- "Patient received antenatal corticosteroids due to threatened preterm labor at 28 weeks." — High-risk pregnancy management
- "Complete course of antenatal corticosteroids was administered prior to delivery." — Delivery documentation