ELCS at 37 weeks - steroid injections?

[Whatevertheweather]

Hi,

Does anyone know if it is recommended to have steroid injections for a 37 week elcs? Can't seem to find a definitive answer.

I am having one in 4 weeks and I've been told no steroids as it's classed as full term. Is this other people's experience?

Thanks

I think no steroids at that gestation is the norm. I googled it a while ago for something and all the info I could find said that.

I had an elective c-section at 36 weeks and had no steroids. Tbh I wish I'd pushed for them as my DS developed Respitory Distress Syndrome.

Yes. DD was born at 37+1 and didn't have steroid injections, she was just fine.

Hope it all goes well.

I probably shouldn't have mentioned my DS, don't want to worry you OP.

Yes, you should be offered up to 38+6 for any elective cs, it's 2010 guideline from royal college of O&G to reduce breathing problems. See www.rcog.org.uk/womens-health/clinical-guidance/antenatal-corticosteroids-prevent-respiratory-distress-syndrome-gree
Just hasn't been adopted in all units as yet but dont be afraid to ask if youre not offered steroids. Doesn't apply to anything other than electives, because risks aren't the same once babies have experienced labour, however briefly.

I had one at 37 weeks and was not offered steroids- no problems at all, but that's very interesting information from Swan...

Very interesting thank you all. Thank you for that swan. So it seems I wouldn't be being silly to ask again.

Am very risk averse as I lost my beautiful dd2 at 35 weeks in august last year (hence the 37 wk elcs this time) so I want to minimise the chance of her having any problems. I just feel bad questioning the consultant as she has been wonderfully supportive throughout this pregnancy.

So sorry, Whatevertheweather. My DS2 was stillborn at 36 weeks which was why my last DS was born early too.

Hope all goes lovely and perfectly for you.

Don't ever for a second feel bad about questioning your dr.

Oh God Whatever and Ovo, it makes my blood run cold my first baby was born very poorly and could have had the same out-come. Best of luck and at least discuss the steroid option. Thinking of you. This little baby will be just fine and as strong as an ox.xx

Thank you OvO and Newby. I am hoping the next 4 weeks pass uneventfully.

I'm so sorry to hear about your ds OvO must have been doubly scary for ds2 to get RDS.

I'm going to ask again next week if I can have them as a precaution

I had a planned c-section at 37 + 6 and when I signed the consent, the increased risk of breathing problems from a c-section before 39 weeks (because the baby doesn't have fluid pushed from the lungs as it's squeezed down the birth canal) was explained to me. I asked my consultant if I could have the steroid injection as a precaution. She agreed straight away but I don't think it would have been suggested if I hadn't asked.

My baby was fine but she was slow to take her first deep breath & while we were waiting (she was being rubbed with towels to wake her up as she was still asleep) the midwife did say to me: "I'm glad she had steroids now" so I think it may have made a difference. It's worth pushing with your consultant, or asking to get a second opinion from someone else. Good luck.