The C*STEROID Feasibility Study: a two-site, randomised placebo controlled trial of corticosteroids before planned caesarean section delivery at 35+0 to 39+6 weeks of pregnancy to determine feasibility for recruitment to the C*STEROID Trial.

Birth by planned caesarean section poses some risk to babies, in particular, the need for admission to the neonatal unit for breathing support. Corticosteroid injections given to mothers expecting a preterm birth reduce neonatal respiratory morbidity but is not known if corticosteroids before a planned caesarean section at or near term have the same effect. Limited research suggests that as well as benefits on babies’ breathing these injections may lower babies’ blood sugar levels and so possibly cause harm. The C*STEROID Trial is a planned to be a multi-centre, placebo-controlled, randomised trial to assess the effects of corticosteroids given to mothers before a planned caesarean section at or near term on neonatal and childhood health. The C*STEROID Feasibility Study will take place in two maternity units over a 12 month period to identify key issues that may arise for women considering trial participation and for the researchers and medical professionals involved in the trial in practice. The hypothesis of the C*STEROID Feasibility Study is that women will be willing to take part in a trial of antenatal corticosteroids prior to planned caesarean section at 35+0 to 39+6 weeks.