Uterine Prolapse (Prolapse of the uterus)
Consists of the partial or complete eversion of one or both uterine horns.
Description
It involves the partial or complete eversion of one or both uterine horns and usually occurs within 2-4 hours after ending farrow. Prolonged efforts during farrow make 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 redness mucosa of the uterus.
- This mass increases rapidly in size until it comes out.
Piglets, nursery and fattening
- Not present.
Causes / Contributing Factors
- Uterine prolapses are rare. They usually occur in older sows with large litters or that give birth to very big piglets.
- Structures that hold the uterus become weak or uterine wall becomes flaccid.
- Estrogenic mycotoxins have been related to this condition.
Diagnosis
- It is based in clinical condition.
Control/Prevention
- The treatment consists in introducing the uterus inside the sow. This is often impossible or sow dies due to internal hemorrhage.
- In most cases the sow should be culled for animal welfare reasons.
