The fetal pacemaker includes a corkscrew electrode that anchors the device upon implantation, a short strain relieving lead, a secondary coil and ferrite for recharging, the oscillator circuitry, and a 3 mAh lithium ion cell. The device is shown within a plastic insertion sheath and is held inside by friction of an epoxy disk between the electrode and lead. Once the device location is confirmed, the sheath can be rotated by the surgeon to screw the electrode into the myocardium. A push rod is then used to dislodge the friction disk from the sheath and to eject the pacemaker as the sheath and insertion cannula are retracted.