Effects of dexamethasone on maternal and fetal hemodynamic states and fetal oxygenation

The effects of dexamethasone on maternal and fetal hemodynamic states and fetal oxygenation were determined in chronically instrumented unanesthetized pregnant ewes and fetal lambs. Intravenous injections of pharmacologic doses of dexamethasone to the mother failed to alter maternal blood pressure, heart rate, blood flow in the uterine artery supplying the pregnant horn, or uterine vascular resistance. Direct administration of dexamethasone to the fetus had no effect on fetal blood pressure, heart rate, acid-base state, or oxygenation. Furthermore, direct fetal administration of dexamethasone did not produce premature parturition.