A course of antenatal corticosteroids given within the seven days prior to preterm birth reduces perinatal and neonatal death and respiratory distress syndrome.[Grade A] For women undergoing planned caesarean birth between 37+ 0 and 38+ 6 weeks an informed discussion should take place with the woman about the potential risks and benefits of a course of antenatal corticosteroids. Although antenatal corticosteroids may reduce admission to the neonatal unit for respiratory morbidity, it is uncertain if there is any reduction in respiratory distress syndrome, transient tachypnoea of the newborn or neonatal unit admission overall, and antenatal corticosteroids may result in harm to the neonate which includes hypoglycaemia and potential developmental delay.[Grade B]