Fetal heart rate variation after corticosteroids for fetal maturation

The most conspicuous effect of corticosteroids is a short term increase of STV and decrease of FHR. A slight decrease after 48-71 h is possible, but abnormally low values should be considered as a sign of fetal distress. The clinical guidance, given by some, not to intervene because of a low STV after corticosteroids appears invalid.