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CME Credit Offered
CME Credit Offered
Abstract Award
Abstract Award
Recording available 2/16-5/2
Recording available 2/16-5/2
AIUM Credit
AIUM Credit
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Foundation Awardee
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Abstract Award
Abstract Award
Foundation Awardee
Foundation Awardee

Poster Session 1

Category: Prematurity

Poster Session 1

(362) Impact of Antenatal Steroid Administration in the Late Preterm Period

Wednesday, February 11, 2026
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM  
Objective:
The administration of antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) during the late preterm period (34 0/7 - 36 6/7 weeks) remains debated due to uncertainties regarding its efficacy in improving neonatal respiratory outcomes, particularly respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), and concerns about potential long-term neurodevelopmental effects. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of ACS on RDS in late preterm neonates through a subgroup analysis.

Study Design:
We conducted a retrospective cohort study at a tertiary medical center, analyzing all singleton late preterm deliveries between May 2016 and June 2023. Maternal and neonatal outcome data were extracted from electronic medical records. Women who received ACS before 34 0/7 weeks were excluded. A subgroup analysis was performed to identify clinical characteristics associated with potential ACS benefit.

Results:
A total of 1,967 late preterm neonates were included, with 372 (18.91%) receiving ACS, though only 202 (54.3%) completed the full dose. ACS did not significantly reduce RDS incidence (5.11% vs. 5.27%, p > 0.99). Further subgroup analyses, including gestational birth week, maternal hypertension, diabetes, preterm premature rupture of membranes, cesarean delivery, and low birth weight (< 2500g), showed no association between ACS and reduced RDS risk (Table 1).

Conclusion:
To our knowledge, this is the largest and most recent study on this topic. Our findings suggest that ACS administration in the late preterm period does not improve lung maturity or reduce neonatal RDS risk, questioning its clinical utility in this population.