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Fetal hiccups in the baboon
R I Stark1, S S Daniel, M Garland
1Department of Pediatrics, Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York 10032.
The American Journal of Physiology
|December 1, 1994
Summary
Prenatal hiccups in fetal baboons were systematically characterized, revealing distinct pressure patterns and cyclic recurrence every 3-4 hours. These fetal movements were consistent throughout gestation and not linked to behavioral state changes.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Fetal development
- Physiology
Background:
- Prenatal hiccups are recognized by mothers as fetal movements.
- Ultrasound confirms fetal hiccups from early gestation to birth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically characterize prenatal hiccuping in fetal baboons.
- To differentiate hiccup features from fetal breathing patterns.
Main Methods:
- Recorded tracheal fluid pressure in 11 chronically instrumented fetal baboons.
- Used visual inspection and automated techniques to detect and analyze hiccups.
- Data collected over 21.5 +/- 7.3 days during gestation (124-164 days).
Main Results:
- Hiccups identified as high-amplitude tracheal pressure fluctuations, distinct from fetal breaths.
- Mean hiccup amplitude: 23.0 +/- 3.1 mmHg; inspiratory time: 0.26 +/- 0.03 s; expiratory time: 0.27 +/- 0.02 s.
- Hiccuping incidence: 1.8 +/- 0.4%; rate: 26.2 +/- 6.2 min-1; bout duration: 4.3 +/- 0.8 min; interval: 3.35 +/- 0.60 h.
- Features remained constant, with increased expiratory time later in gestation.
- Hiccups recurred cyclically every 3-4 hours, independent of behavioral state.
Conclusions:
- Prenatal hiccups in baboons exhibit distinct physiological characteristics.
- Hiccuping patterns are consistent and cyclical throughout late gestation.
- Fetal hiccuping is a vigorous but stable activity, not linked to behavioral state changes.