The effect of induced maternal hyperthermia (1.5 degrees C rise over 60 min) on the uterine and umbilical circulations was examined in two groups of chronically instrumented pregnant sheep. Hyperventilation occurred in both groups. In the group in which the resultant respiratory alkalosis was untreated (N = 5), uterine blood flow decreased to 53 +/- 3% (mean +/- SE; P less than 0.01) of control at maximal maternal temperature. Umbilical blood flow also decreased 30 +/- 6% (P less than 0.01) below control levels. In the other group, normocapnia was maintained (N = 4). Uterine blood flow decreased in this group to 75% +/- 2% (P less than 0.01) of control levels, but umbilical blood flow did not significantly change. There was no significant change in maternal or fetal mean arterial pressure during hyperthermia in either group. Thus, maternal hyperthermia per se results in a significant decrease in uterine blood flow primarily through an effect on uterine vascular resistance, but without a concomitant change in umbilical blood flow.