Effects of Maternal Corticosteroids Administration for Enhancement of Fetal Lung Maturity on Non Stress Test and Fetal Biophysical Activities

Objective: To evaluate the effects of maternal corticosteroids administration on Non stress test and fetal biophysical activities in pregnancies with normal fetoplacental vascular resistance. Study Design: Prospective study. Patients and Methods: Included singleton pregnancies at risk of preterm labour between 28 weeks and 34 weeks gestation, preterm birth was anticipated on the basis of: History of previous preterm birth, preterm contractions of the uterus, placenta previa and third trimester bleeding, preterm premature rupture of the membranes, polyhydramnios, history of recurrent spontaneous abortion. Intramuscular dexamethasone was given as 4 doses dexamethasone (6mg/12 hours for 48hrs), a non stress test and ultrasound study for biophysical activity (FHR, breathing and limb movement, AFI) were done for all women immediately and at 2 and 4 days later. Results: There was a statistically significant (p<0.001) difference in the frequency of non-reassuring fetal heart rate tracings and fetal breathing episode, limb movement 48 hours after dexamethasone. Conclusion: Corticosteriods administration can cause a remarkable, but impermanent reduction in fetal biophysical profile scores.