Obstetrics & Neonatology Pt. 1

Flashcards created for review on topics related to obstetrics and neonatology in large animal medicine.

What are the physiological factors that induce parturition?

CRH, ACTH, hypothalamus, anterior pituitary, adrenal cortex.

What biochemical factors are associated with parturition?

Lung surfactant, liver glycogen, thyroid metabolism.

What hormone is released from the posterior pituitary during parturition?

Oxytocin.

When should vaccinations occur in preparation for foaling?

4 weeks prior to the due date.

What are the key features of a foaling location?

Quiet, safe for mare and foal, clean, spaced from other horses.

What bedding is recommended for a foaling stall?

Straw and shavings added after foaling.

What are early signs of approaching parturition?

Udder development 2-6 weeks prior.

What physical changes indicate approaching parturition 7-14 days prior?

Muscular relaxation in pelvic region and vulva relaxation.

What is waxing over the teats?

A sign of approaching parturition 1-2 days prior.

What is colostrum?

Yellow, sticky fluid that may drip down the legs just before foaling.

What are some foaling predictors?

Mineral level changes in udder secretions and mechanical devices like Foal-Alert.

What does the 'Count to Three' rule refer to during foaling?

Identifying one nose and two front feet.

What is a breech presentation?

Fetus presents with hind feet first; requires assistance.

What may indicate dystocia in mares?

If foal is not delivered within 30 minutes after water breaks.

What are signs of first-stage labor in mares?

Signs of abdominal discomfort and restlessness lasting 12-18 hours.

What happens during stage II of parturition?

Strong uterine contractions followed by the expulsion of the fetus.

What is the normal duration of stage II?

Approximately 20-30 minutes after water breaks.

What complications can arise during delivery?

Dystocia due to improper presentation.

What is the importance of the chorioallantois breaking?

Signals the start of stage II of parturition.

What should be monitored if first-stage labor lasts too long?

If no progress is made within 1 hour, intervention might be required.

What is the expected time for expulsion of fetal membranes?

Stage 3 typically occurs within 6-12 hours after parturition.

What should be done if a mare suffers from uterine necrosis?

Immediate veterinary intervention is necessary.

What is oxytocin's role in parturition?

It stimulates myometrial contractions from the posterior pituitary.

What hygiene practices should be followed during dystocia cases?

Cleanse the mare’s perineum and maintain good hygiene.

What is the standard assistance for presenting a foal in dystocia?

Use copious amounts of clean lubricant.

What pre-foaling signs are observed 1-2 days prior?

Waxing over the teats, colostrum presence, and vulva relaxation.

How is retained placenta treated in post-foaling complications?

Administering oxytocin and distention with warm water.

What can retained placenta lead to in mares?

Metritis, sepsis, laminitis, death.

What timing is expected for the expulsion of the placenta in mares?

Should be expelled within 3 hours.

What treatment options are available for retained placenta in ruminants?

Ecbolics (like oxytocin) and uterine lavage.

What is a common post-calving complication in ruminants?

Retained placenta leading to serious health risks.

What additional treatment may be required for septic retained placenta?

Systemic antibiotics and repeated uterine lavages.

What is a prolapsed uterus?

More common in animals with dystocia; can lead to severe complications.

When should a C-section be considered?

If vaginal delivery is not possible and surgical facilities are available.

What is a fetotomy?

Sectioning the fetus and removing it in pieces if necessary.

What should you ensure if attempting vaginal delivery with dystocia?

Sedation and epidural for the mare's comfort.

How should the mare be positioned during controlled vaginal delivery?

Hindquarters hoisted upwards for better manipulation space.

What is a sign of stage III parturition?

Expulsion of the placenta within an expected time frame.

What can cause uterine artery rupture?

Complications from untreated uterine prolapse or dystocia.

What is the relevance of maternal blood CO2 levels during parturition?

Increased CO2 due to fetal activity is a biochemical factor in parturition.

What hormones cause cervical dilation?

Estrogen, PGF2α, oxytocin, and relaxin.

How does fetal activity contribute to parturition onset?

Through increased maternal blood CO2 and release of fetal antigens.

What minimal requirements exist for foaling preparation?

A safe, quiet location with cleanliness and adequate space.

Describe the role of sensory neurons during parturition.

They transmit signals leading to oxytocin release for contractions.

What is a critical care aspect for the mare during dystocia management?

Using copious amounts of lubricant to assist in repositioning the fetus.

What is the implication of strong myometrial contractions?

They facilitate the progress of labor during the parturition process.

What protective measures should be taken for the foaling environment?

Ensure it's clean and free from hazards for both mare and foal.

List one method to help manage the dystocia situation.

Use sedation and an epidural for the mare's comfort.

Identify a tool for predicting foaling times.

Foal-Alert, a mechanical device to signal when foaling is near.

What does the relaxation of the vulva indicate?

It is a sign of approaching parturition in the mare.

What is a natural indicator of pregnancy nearing term?

Development of the udder in the mare.

How long can signs of labor last in first-time mares?

Signs can last up to 24 hours in first-time mothers.

What is a risk associated with severe dystocia cases?

Uterine necrosis may occur due to prolonged labor.

What immediate action should be taken if water breaks?

Monitor for progression of labor and the delivery of the foal.

What preparation can facilitate the expulsion of the placenta?

Administering small doses of oxytocin after foaling.

What elements contribute to a successful foaling environment?

Quiet, privacy, and clean bedding.

What timeframe signifies a normal parturition process in ruminants?

Expulsion of placenta is usually within 6-12 hours post-partum.

What does regular monitoring of the mare during labor involve?

Checking for cervical dilation and fetal positioning.

What is the typical presentation of a foal during normal delivery?

Head first with neck and front limbs extended.

How can prolonged second-stage labor be assessed?

If progress is not noted after 1 hour, intervention may be necessary.

Describe the initial steps of managing dystocia.

Clean the mare and assess fetus position, then administer lubricant.

What actions are required if a mare's cervical dilation is inadequate?

Manual adjustment may be necessary for proper presentation.

What complications can arise without prompt attention to dystocia?

Possible injuries to mare or fetal demise.

What is essential for the wellbeing of both mare and foal during foaling?

Maintaining a clean and calm environment during the delivery.

How should post-foaling complications be monitored?

Regular checks for signs of retained placenta or other health issues.

What veterinary assistance may a mare need during complex deliveries?

Possible surgical intervention or controlled vaginal delivery.

What procedure can be life-saving in cases of severe dystocia?

Fetotomy may be necessary to save the mare.

What physiological changes occur in the mare's body as parturition nears?

Relaxation of pelvic ligaments and increased uterine contractions.

What is an expected outcome of dystocia if no action is taken?

Risk of life-threatening complications for the mare.

What can farmers use to ensure successful foaling in the field?

Monitoring mineral levels in udder secretions for foaling predictors.

What habits can promote daytime calving in cows?

Feeding cows in late morning and evening.

How can veterinarian interventions during dystocia improve outcomes?

Quick intervention can reduce risks for both mare and foal.

What is a common sign of stage I labor in mares?

Frequent, small amounts of urination and switching of the tail.

How often should fetal presentation be checked during labor?

Regularly throughout labor to ensure proper positioning.

What does the common advice about foaling timing suggest?

Mares generally foal at inconvenient times.

What is key to ensuring reduced complications during foaling?

Preparation and environmental management prior to due dates.