Does steroid use affect baby?

The Impact of Steroid Use on Babies
The use of steroids, particularly during pregnancy, raises significant concerns regarding the health and development of babies. Understanding these effects is crucial for expectant mothers and healthcare providers alike.
Types of Steroids and Their Uses
Steroids can be broadly categorized into corticosteroids and anabolic steroids. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone and prednisolone, are often prescribed to manage inflammation and autoimmune conditions. Anabolic steroids, on the other hand, are typically misused for muscle growth and athletic performance enhancement. The implications of each type on pregnancy and fetal health can differ markedly.
Corticosteroids and Pregnancy
Corticosteroids are sometimes administered to pregnant women at risk of premature birth. These medications can help mature the baby’s lungs, significantly reducing the risk of respiratory complications associated with prematurity. However, the use of corticosteroids during pregnancy is not without risks. Research indicates that while they can be beneficial in certain situations, there is also a potential for adverse effects, including an increased risk of birth defects, particularly when taken in high doses or for extended periods.
Anabolic Steroids and Fertility
The misuse of anabolic steroids can have detrimental effects on fertility for both men and women. In men, steroid use can lead to reduced sperm production and testicular shrinkage, which may impact the ability to conceive. For women, anabolic steroids can disrupt menstrual cycles and lead to hormonal imbalances, further complicating fertility issues. While the direct effects on a developing fetus from anabolic steroids are less studied, the implications of impaired fertility and hormonal disruptions are concerning.
Potential Risks to the Baby
The risks associated with steroid use during pregnancy can manifest in various ways. Babies exposed to corticosteroids in utero may face a higher likelihood of low birth weight and developmental delays. Additionally, there is a general baseline risk of birth defects (2%–5%) that can be exacerbated by steroid use, particularly with oral forms of the medication.
Moreover, babies born to mothers who have taken steroids may experience withdrawal symptoms if the mother was on a high dose or if the steroids were abruptly discontinued before delivery. This highlights the importance of careful management and consultation with healthcare providers when steroids are prescribed during pregnancy.
Conclusion
In summary, while corticosteroids can be beneficial in certain medical scenarios during pregnancy, their use must be carefully weighed against potential risks to the developing baby. Anabolic steroids pose additional concerns, particularly regarding fertility and hormonal health. Expectant mothers should engage in open discussions with their healthcare providers to navigate these complex issues, ensuring the best possible outcomes for both themselves and their babies.

Can steroids cause developmental delays?

Infants treated with dexamethasone early after birth also have been reported to have smaller head circumferences and lower weights at 36 weeks’ postmenstrual age; higher incidences of cerebral palsy; and developmental delays later in life compared with placebo-treated infants.

Can steroids during pregnancy cause autism?

Higher estradiol and lower sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) were significantly associated with increased ASD risk. Study findings provide preliminary evidence to link greater placental estradiol activity with ASD and support future investigations of the prenatal steroid environment in ASD.

Do steroids affect fetal growth?

Some animal- and human-based studies have shown that infants exposed to exogenous steroids have lower birth weights, smaller head circumference, and shorter overall length than those not exposed to steroids (Jobe et al.

How long does it take for steroids to develop baby lungs?

The maximum benefits of steroid injections begin when your baby is born two to seven days after receiving the first dose. The treatment isn’t as effective if you deliver less than 24 hours from the time you receive the first dose, and it becomes less effective after 7 days.

Can taking steroids affect having a baby?

In addition, prolonged steroid use can lead to pregnancy complications, as well as interruptions to a woman’s menstrual cycle and overall chances of conceiving. Even cases of cervical cancer may arise, which has a serious impact on one’s overall ability to achieve pregnancy and plan for the future.

Can I get pregnant if my boyfriend is on testosterone?

With few exceptions the answer is yes. Most men who take testosterone see dramatic reductions in their sperm counts and it is very common for us to see azoospermia (no sperm in the ejaculate) when guys are on testosterone or similar supplements even for short periods of time.

What can steroids do to babies?

One of the potential side effects of corticosteroid medicine is mood change, such as irritability, and this can lead to difficult behaviour in some children. When used short-term, it can increase blood pressure and blood sugar levels, causing some children to become hyperactive.

What are the disadvantages of taking steroids while pregnant?

If you are given steroids and are more than 35 weeks pregnant there is a chance that your baby may have low blood sugar levels after they are born. Low blood sugar can be harmful for babies if it is not treated and can mean your baby needs to be admitted to the neonatal unit.

What happens if a baby takes prednisone?

You may notice swelling of your child’s face, feet, or hands. Report swelling to your transplant coordinator if your child gains more than two pounds in a day. High blood pressure (hypertension). Prednisone may affect the way your child’s body retains fluid and removes sodium (salt).

When are babies’ lungs fully developed?

Throughout the pregnancy, these “branches” become more complex. The rate of lung development can vary greatly, and the lungs are among the last organs to fully develop – usually around 37 weeks. From fluid to air: While in the womb, lungs are filled with fluid and oxygen is supplied through the umbilical cord.