Is Every Steroid Injection Necessary in Pregnancy? Questions to Ask Your Doctor

It can be unsettling when your doctor prescribes an injection you weren’t expecting — especially something like a steroid injection (Dexamethasone or Betamethasone).

You might wonder: Why do I need this? Is it safe for my baby? And is it always necessary?
Let’s break it down calmly, question by question.

1. What is a steroid injection in pregnancy, and why is it given?

Steroid injections like Dexamethasone or Betamethasone are forms of antenatal corticosteroids.
They’re most often given when there’s a chance of preterm birth — typically between 24 and 34 weeks of pregnancy.

These steroids help speed up fetal lung development, reducing the risk of breathing problems if the baby is born early. They can also support the baby’s brain and intestinal maturity.

2. Is a steroid injection safe during pregnancy?

Yes, when given for the right medical reason, steroid injections are considered safe and are part of standard global obstetric practice.

According to FOGSI (Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India) and the World Health Organization, antenatal corticosteroids are recommended for women at risk of preterm birth to improve newborn outcomes.

The injections are typically given as two doses 24 hours apart, under medical supervision.
Side effects, if any, are usually mild and temporary — such as slightly raised blood sugar levels for a few days.

3. Do all pregnant women need steroid injections?

No — not every pregnant woman needs steroids.
They’re prescribed when doctors believe there’s a significant chance of early delivery or when the baby might benefit from lung maturity support.

Situations where your doctor may recommend them include:

• Signs of preterm labour or early contractions
• Premature rupture of membranes (water breaking early)
• Complications like preeclampsia or growth restriction, where early delivery might be needed
• A planned C-section before 37 weeks

If your pregnancy is progressing normally and your doctor hasn’t mentioned preterm risk, you can always ask for clarification on why it’s being suggested.

4. Can steroid injections be given even if the baby seems fine?

Sometimes doctors give steroids as a precaution if they feel there’s even a small chance of early delivery — for instance, if fetal movements seem reduced or certain medical parameters are borderline.

It doesn’t always mean something is wrong. It often means your doctor is taking an extra layer of preventive care to ensure your baby’s lungs are ready in case of an early delivery.

That said, it’s completely okay to ask your doctor to explain the reasoning clearly — it helps you feel informed and reassured.

5. What should I ask my doctor before taking a steroid injection?

If you’re uncertain, asking questions is the best way to understand your treatment.
Here are a few you can bring up during your appointment:

• Why do I need a steroid injection in pregnancy?
• Is there a sign of preterm labour or another reason for it?
• How will this help my baby?
• Are there any side effects I should know about?
• How many doses will I need and when?
• Is Dexamethasone better for my case, or Betamethasone?
• Will this affect my blood sugar or thyroid levels?
• What if I don’t take it right away — will it change anything?

Having this conversation helps you make an informed and confident decision.

6. What are the side effects of steroid injections in pregnancy?

Most women tolerate steroid injections well.
Possible short-term effects include:

• Mild increase in blood sugar levels (especially important for women with gestational diabetes)
• Temporary facial flushing or restlessness
• Rarely, sleep disturbance or swelling

These effects usually fade within a few days. Doctors may monitor your blood sugar or adjust medication if needed.

7. Can taking steroids too late or unnecessarily cause harm?

One or two doses under medical supervision are considered safe and beneficial when used appropriately.
Repeated or unnecessary courses, however, are not routinely recommended unless specifically advised by your obstetrician for ongoing preterm risk.

Your doctor’s goal is to give it at the right time — not too early, not too often — to help your baby if there’s a genuine chance of early birth.

8. How can I feel confident about my decision?

Pregnancy comes with many medical choices, and it’s okay to want clarity.
If your doctor recommends a steroid injection in the third trimester, it doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a problem — it often means they’re preparing your baby’s lungs “just in case.”

Trust your instincts, ask your questions, and remember — this isn’t about doubt, it’s about understanding.
Your baby’s wellbeing is a shared goal between you and your doctor.

Key Takeaway

Steroid injections like Dexamethasone or Betamethasone are safe and effective when given for the right reason — usually to help your baby’s lungs mature before birth.
If everything in your pregnancy looks normal and your doctor still recommends it, don’t hesitate to ask why now? and how it helps.

You deserve answers that bring you peace of mind — not confusion.