This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (Intervention). The objectives are as follows:

To assess the effects on fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality, on maternal mortality and morbidity, and on the child in later life of administering corticosteroids to the mother prior to anticipated preterm birth. The review will address whether corticosteroids are more effective than placebo or 'no corticosteroids' in reducing the risk of respiratory distress syndrome, neonatal death, intraventricular haemorrhage, necrotising enterocolitis, chronic lung disease in survivors of neonatal intensive care, the use of surfactant in the newborn, the cost of neonatal care, and the duration of neonatal hospital care. The review will also address the effect of corticosteroids on the risk of stillbirth, fetal or neonatal infection, maternal infection, and long‐term abnormality in survivors during childhood and adulthood.