Parturition Holly Glomski Topic

Objective Identify the phases of parturition in sheep Signs of the phases

What is Parturition? Process of giving birth Several phases Livestock manager needs to be prepared

Lambing Phases Four Phases Dilation Accelerated Contractions Expulsion of Lamb Expulsion of Placenta

Dilation Cervix Dilates and Birth Canal is prepared hours Clear-whitish discharge appears on vulva Completion of this phase Main sign lambing has begun

Acceleration of Contractions Takes a few minutes to 3-4 hours Ewe spends more time on her side Abdominal muscles contract as labor intensifies A large bubble of water will appear, and break

Expulsion of Lamb Can be complications (Dystocia) Normal birth Tip of nose and front feet delivered first Ewe cleans head and nasal passages first If second lamb is to be born interest in first decreases and contractions start

Expulsion of Placenta/Afterbirth Extra embryonic membranes that form around embryo in early pregnancy Membranes attached to uterus Responsible for transfer of nutrients and wastes between mother and fetus. Red strawberry like bumps, liver like mass, white colored cords

Expulsion of Placenta/Afterbirth Delivered naturally 30min.-1hour after delivery of fetus. Possible to miss delivery of Placenta Natural instincts to consume as to not attract predators Placenta Retention Placenta is not expelled within 24hours after delivery Serious could lead to infection Call Veterinarian

Review 4 Lambing Phases Dilation Acceleration of contraction Expulsion of Lamb Expulsion of Placenta