The C*STEROID Trial: Corticosteroids before planned caesarean section from 35+0 to 39+6 weeks of pregnancy.

Abstract

Birth by planned caesarean section poses some risk to babies, in particular, the need for admission to the neonatal unit for breathing support. Corticosteroid injections given to mothers expecting a preterm birth reduce neonatal respiratory morbidity but is not known if corticosteroids before a planned caesarean section at or near term have the same effect. Limited research suggests that as well as benefits on babies’ breathing these injections may lower babies’ blood sugar levels and so possibly cause harm. The C*STEROID Trial is a multi-centre, placebo-controlled, randomised trial to assess the effects of corticosteroids given to mothers before a planned caesarean section at or near term on neonatal and childhood health.