Episode 155 Antenatal Steroids

What if the treatments we believe to be beneficial in Obstetrics aren't as helpful as we thought? Or worse, might they bring along hidden risks for mothers and babies? As your host, Florence, I invite you to journey with me as we explore the complex world of antenatal steroids, a commonly used intervention for preterm labor and planned cesarean births. This episode will not only shed light on the perceived positives, like improved baby outcomes, but also dissect the potential downsides, such as its impact on diabetic control for mothers. We'll also delve into emerging evidence that raises questions about the true scale of these benefits.Let's take a closer look at the long-term implications of administering antenatal steroids. Is it possible that even a single course of these steroids could lead to a higher chance of mental or behavioral disorders later in life for the baby? Or increase the risk of serious infections in their first year? Informed discussions between doctors and parents are crucial when it comes to this controversial topic. Drawing to a close, we'll talk about how you, our dedicated listeners, can support this podcast and ensure its accessibility to all, and how to propose topics for our future episodes. Prepare to have your perceptions challenged and your understanding deepened as we navigate the evolving realm of Obstetrics.Want to know morehttps://www.rcog.org.uk/media/karfqj1i/corticosteroids-in-pregnancy-patient-information-leaflet.pdfhttps://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/1471-0528.17027https://www.bmj.com/content/382/bmj-2023-075835Thank you all for listening,  My name is Florence Wilcock I am an NHS doctor working as an obstetrician, specialising in the care of both mother and baby during pregnancy and birth. If you have enjoyed my podcast please do continue to subscribe, rate, review and recommend my podcast on your podcast provider.If you have found my ideas helpful whilst expecting your baby or working in maternity care please spread the word & help theobspod reach other parents or staff who may be interested in exploring all things pregnancy and birth. Keeping my podcast running  without ads or sponsorship is important to me. I want to keep it free and accessible to all but it costs me a small amount each month to maintain and keep the episodes live, if you wish to contribute anything to  support theobspod please head over to my buy me a coffee page  https://bmc.link/theobspodV any donation very gratefully received however small. Its easy to explore my back catalogue of episodes, I have a wide range of topics that may help you make decisions for yourself and your baby during pregnancy as well as some more reflective episodes on life as a doctor. If you want to get in touch to suggest topics, I love to hear your thoughts and ideas. You can find out more about me on Instagram @TheObsPod and email me on [email protected] Please also check out #MatExp matexp.org.uk for ideas about how to improve maternity experience. My bea...