There are two main injections used to help a baby's lungs develop before birth: betamethasone and dexamethasone. These are corticosteroids given to mothers at risk of premature birth between 28 and 34 weeks of gestation. They promote lung maturity in the fetus, reducing the risk of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) after birth.
Understanding Lung Maturity Injections
These injections are crucial for babies born prematurely because their lungs may not be fully developed. Premature babies often struggle with breathing because their lungs haven't produced enough surfactant, a substance that keeps the air sacs in the lungs open.
- Betamethasone: A commonly used corticosteroid.
- Dexamethasone: Another corticosteroid option, sometimes used as an alternative to betamethasone.
Both medications work by stimulating the production of surfactant in the fetal lungs. This helps ensure the baby's lungs are better prepared for breathing air after birth.
The decision to administer these injections is made by a doctor based on the individual circumstances of the mother and baby. It's important to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
