Cardiovascular responses of fetal guinea pig to norepinephrine

A technique allowing the direct measurement of fetal heart rate and blood pressure in the guinea pig is described in detail. The basal heart rate and blood pressure measurements under both pentobarbital and methoxyflurane anesthesia are given. In comparison to the mother, the fetal cardiovascular system was less responsive to norepinephrine. This technique demonstrates the feasibility of using the guinea pig in fetal cardiovascular experimentation.