Uterine Prolapse

Consists of the partial or complete eversion of one or both uterine horns.

Alternative names: Prolapse of the uterus

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.

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.

• 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.

• Based on clinical sings.

• 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.