 The first course of ANC prior to the trial entry will be given according to the clinical indications of the Center. Administration of further courses of ANC before the trial entry will disqualify the mother from the ACG trial. The study course of betamethasone or placebo will be given to each eligible woman at least 7 days after the first course of ANC. After the entry criteria are met betamethasone 12mg or placebo normal saline will be drawn to a sealed syringe containing the randomization number. The drug or placebo is administered intramuscularly. 