Introduction

 

Babies born by planned C - sections are more vulnerable to transient tachyopnea of the newborn (TTN). Babies under 39 weeks are most at risk. Traditionally, the administration of antenatal steroids (ANC), has helped mature the fetal lungs. 1 . Recent evidence suggests that children exposed to steroids and delivered at term, may be at increased risk of future neurosensory and cognitive problem, leading to delays in milestones/educational achievement2 Guidance now advises against the use of ANC at >37 weeks. 1,3 There has been a reduction in the number of patients receiving ACS routinely in our district general hospital progressively over time. The aim of our study, was to compare the number of babies born by elective c/secton, admitted to the neonatal unit (NNU) requiring respiratory support in 2020, when ANC were given to all babies between 37–39 weeks, against the current practice in 2022, when steroids were not administered to this group of