[2] Antenatal steroids have been shown to reduce the occurrence and mortality of infant respiratory distress syndrome, a life-threatening condition caused by underdeveloped lungs.
[8] Similar to its effects on preterm birth, research evidence suggests that the administration of antenatal steroids to patients with PPROM reduces risks of neonatal mortality, intraventricular hemorrhage and respiratory distress syndrome.
[10] In animals, antenatal corticosteroid use has been associated with adverse effects on the cardiometabolic system and inhibited growth of the brain, as well as worsened memory and learning difficulties.
[10] In both humans and animals, research has suggested that repeated doses of antenatal corticosteroids could lead to an increased risk of vision and hearing issues in the long-term.
Dexamethasone is often recommend over the latter due to its increased efficacy and safety, wide availability, and low cost,[27] while betamethasone is better at preventing the softening of the brain in premature fetuses.
[31] In order to generate improved respiratory outcomes, antenatal steroids act on cells called type II pneumocytes which are located within the alveoli of infant lungs.
[32] Surfactant is a phospholipid-rich substance secreted by the lungs in order to increase elasticity and decrease surface tension, consequently generating more efficient rates of ventilation.
[38] Liggins and Howie's research proved that antenatal corticosteroids were able to decrease respiratory complications and infant mortality by inducing cellular differentiation, and thus maturation, in the lungs.