Abstract

Aim: To determine the association between maternal dexamethasone administration and changes in fetal heart rate and fetal movements.

Study Design: Cohort study

Setting: Obstetrics & Gynaecology Department, Punjab Rangers Teaching Hospital, Lahore

Duration of Study:Study was carried out over a period of 6 months, from 1st October 2019 to 31st March 2020.

Method: A total of 130 antenatal patients were taken, in the Obstetrics ward of Punjab Rangers teaching Hospital, over a period of 6 months, from 1st October 2019 to 31st March 2020, in whom there was a risk of preterm delivery and to whom dexamethasone was administered. Non stress test was evaluated and fetal movements were noted before and after dexamethasone administration.

Results: The number of patients complaining of reduced fetal movements was 18%, and the numbers of atypical CTGs observed were 8% following administration of Dexamethasone.

Conclusion: Statistically significant relationship between dexamethasone administration and CTG changes and Fetal Kick Count over 48 hours of administration of last dose.

Keywords: Preterm delivery, CTG, Fetal kick count