The C*STEROID Feasibility Study: Corticosteroids before planned caesarean section from 35+0 to 39+6 weeks

This study was done as the first stage of a larger study, The CSTEROID Trial, with the aim to understand whether giving mothers’ corticosteroid injections before planned caesarean section (CS) birth at 35+0 to 39+6 weeks can safely reduce the risk of breathing problems for babies. Our goal for the initial CSTEROID Feasibility Study was to understand how many women may be willing to take part, and to identify ways to help this process run smoothly for women, their families, and our staff. The results will also contribute to the larger C*STEROID Trial. Recruitment concluded slightly earlier than expected due to the impact of COVID-19 in March 2020; however, we were still able to gain the valuable information we needed to answer all of our research questions. The recruitment rate was 8.9% (88/987) overall and 11.2% (88/789) for those approached about the trial. Neonatal blood glucose concentrations were measured as planned in 87/92 (94.6%) babies. For potential participants, key enablers to participation were contributing to research, a feeling of relevance and a good understanding; key barriers were a lack of understanding and concerns over safety. For researchers and clinicians, themes representing enablers and barriers included relevance, communication and awareness, influences on women’s decision-making, resource challenges and trial process practicalities.