 Glucocortiocoids have a well-known effect on glucose metabolism. They increase blood glucose levels by antagonizing insulin and decreasing synthesis of insulin, thus inhibiting peripheral glucose utilization and increasing gluconeogenesis the process by which the body produces glucose. Pregnancy is also characterized by a relative insulin resistance that results in glucose intolerance. It follows, then, that the combination of pregnancy and corticosteroids could cause significant disruption of glucose homeostasis. 