Perinatal Institute Reviews: Antenatal Corticosteroids.

This remains a leading cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality.

Two doses of betamethasone 12mg im 12 hours apart should be given to women between 24-36 weeks gestation in threatened or suspected preterm labour or risk of delivery. This course should not be repeated unless part of a randomised controlled trial. For details see http://www.perinatal.nhs.uk/reviews

Tocolysis:
RCOG GreenTop Guidelines in progress

To date tocolytic agents have NOT been shown to significantly improve neonatal mortality. They should therefore be used to delay labour in order to administer betamethasone and/or transfer to a hospital with appropriate neonatal facilities, if required. They should not be used if there is any contraindication to pregnancy prolongation and the side effects of individual agents should be considered.

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