Brain and Muscle Potentials from the Intra-Uterine Fœtus in Unnarcotized, Conscious Animals

Abstract

IN a continuation on investigations of the development of muscular activity and brain potentials in fœtal guinea pigs¹ it was observed that punctures made with thin needles of the pregnant uterus and the fœtal membranes did not cause an appreciable outflow of the amniotic fluid. In cases where such an outflow appeared, it was soon stopped, possibly by a reaction of the membranes. The experience gained in this respect led to the development of a technique which allowed of a registration of bioelectric potentials from the intra-uterine fœtus in chronic experiments with unnarcotized, conscious, pregnant animals.