Steroids during late preterm labor: better later than never

Abstract

Steroids during late preterm labor: Better later than never. Steroids--even when administered in the last leg of the late preterm period--still reduce the likelihood of respiratory complications in newborns. Practice changer: Use steroids in women at risk of preterm delivery, even if they are 36 weeks, 6 days-pregnant, because steroids may reduce respiratory complications in the newborn with minimal risk for neonatal or maternal complications.