Uterine Prolapse
Consists of the partial or complete eversion of one or both uterine horns.
Alternative names: Prolapse of the uterus
Information
It involves the partial or complete eversion of one or both uterine horns and usually occurs within 2-4 hours after farrowing. Prolonged labor during farrowing causes a small part of the uterus to be pushed out by uterine contractions.
Symptoms
Sows
- Prolapse occurs within about an hour and begins with the appearance of the red mucosa of the uterus.
- This protruding mass increases rapidly in size until it comes out.
Piglets, nursery, and fattening
- Not seen.
Causes / Contributing Factors
- Uterine prolapses are rare. They usually occur in older sows with large litters or that farrow very large piglets.
- Structures that hold the uterus become weak or the uterine wall becomes flaccid.
- Estrogenic mycotoxins have been linked to this condition.
Diagnosis
- Based on clinical sings.
Control/Prevention
- The treatment consists of introducing the uterus back inside the sow. This is often impossible. The sow usually dies due to internal hemorrhage.
- In most cases the sow should be culled for welfare reasons.
Atlas of pathology
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