What is one of the main reasons for using corticosteroids in preterm labor?

One of the main reasons for using corticosteroids in preterm labor is to enhance fetal lung maturity. Corticosteroids, such as betamethasone or dexamethasone, are administered to the mother when preterm labor is imminent. These medications promote the production of surfactant in the fetal lungs, which is crucial for reducing surface tension in the alveoli and preventing their collapse after birth. Adequate surfactant levels significantly improve the infant’s ability to breathe independently after delivery, which is vital for premature infants who are at risk for respiratory distress syndrome (RDS).

By accelerating lung maturity, corticosteroids play a critical role in improving outcomes for preterm infants by decreasing the likelihood of severe respiratory complications, indicating their importance in management strategies for preterm labor.