Uterine Prolapse in a Sheep and its Management: A Case Report

Abstract

It is simply an eversion of the uterus which turns inside out as t passes through the vagina. Prolapse of the uterus generally occurs immediately after or a few hours of parturation when the cervix is open and the uterus lacks tone (Hanie, 2006). Post partum uterine prolapse occurs in all large animal species. It is most common in the cow and ewe, less common in the doe goat and rare in the mare. In sheep, the condition is usually seen in mature females in the last trimester of pregnancy. Predisposing factors include increased intra-abdominal pressure associated with increased size of the pregnant uterus, intra-abdominal fat, or rumen distention superimposed upon relaxation and softening of the pelvic girdle and associated soft-tissue structures in the pelvic canal and perineum. The prolapse is visible as a large mass protruding from the vulva, often hanging down below the animal’s hock. The placenta may likely be retained during this period (Roberts, 1982). Animals with uterine prolapse treated promptly recovers without complication while delay treatment could result in death of the animal in a matter of hour or so from internal hemorrhage caused by the weight of the organ which tears the mesovarium and artery (Noakes et al., 2001). Success of treatment depends on the type of case, the duration of the case, the degree of damage and contamination.