Blood in the vulva - Atlas of swine pathology

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Possible causes: VicesOther

This blood is caused by vulva biting, an aggressive behaviour in the pig referred as vice. The cause is multifactorial such as genetic, nutritional, environmental or poor management. It could cause an increase of mortality if the haemorrhage is profuse. The healing process will lead to scarring which can interfere with farrowing, leading to obstructions and stillbirths or tearing of the vulva during farrowing. Scarring may also interfere with the next service. This could lead to ascending infection of the bladder and kidneys (cystitis/ pyelonephritis) or the vagina and uterus.