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.

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