Postpartum Uterine Prolapse in Nicobari Sow

A Nicobari sow of 2 years age was attended for treatment of uterine prolapse. History revealed that the farrowing was normal and nothing abnormal was noticed around farrowing. However, it was observed that sow was sitting in the water trough for in the morning. On inspection, it was observed that both the uterine horns were everted exposing the endometrium. Prolapsed uterine masses were oedematous and congested (Fig 1 and Fig 2).

Body temperature, pulse and respiration rate were 102°F, 85 beats/minute and 17/minute, respectively. Prolapsed uterine mass was washed with normal saline and 1% KMnO₄ solution to remove to clean the dirt. Attempts were made to reposition prolapsed uterine mass with difficulties. The sow was given 2000 mL of 5% DNS by intravenous route. Sow died in the course of treatment and management.

Uterine prolapse is occasionally observed in pigs up to several days after parturition or during farrowing. Excessive abdominal pressure or straining due to mal-position of fetus, fetal/maternal disproportion or inflammation in the birth canal or trauma with swelling are thought to be the main etiological factors to induce uterine prolapse in sow. Sows affected with uterine prolapse should be treated immediately as extensive prolapsed results into internal haemorrhage, shock and death. The uterus should be cleaned avoiding any damage and re-placed back into the genital opening and birth canal by gentle push. Proper repositioning of prolapsed uterus is most important to prevent any damage or injury or trauma and each uterine horn should be inverted starting with its tip and gradually reduced until the uterine body has been reached in its original place. Stress and uterine damage will decide the survival and return to normal reproductive performance of sows. Complete and correct reposition of the prolapsed uterus and its restoration of tone will prevent its reoccurrence.

In multiparous pigs, repositioning and retention of the uterus is difficult by pushing, therefore it is better to keep the hind quarter well elevated. A successful retention of prolapsed mass is possible by pushing the uterine mass. The type, duration of the exposure, degree of damage and contamination with dirt and microorganism will decide the success of the treatment. Present study clearly sent a message that early and proper management of prolapsed uterus is necessary for restoration of the reproductive status of the pigs.