PARTURITION IN FARM ANIMALS

Parturition, also known as childbirth or labour, is the process by which a baby is born from the mother\’s uterus. It typically occurs at the end of pregnancy when the fetus has reached full term and is ready to enter the world.

The process of parturition involves a series of physiological and hormonal changes that prepare the mother\’s body for the delivery of the baby.

SIGNS OF APPROACHING PARTURITION

(i) The mammary glands enlarge and begin to secrete milk substances
(ii) The vulva swells and becomes soft
(iii) There may be thick mucus discharge

(iv) The animal becomes restless, lies down and gets up frequently
(v) The animal urinates frequently
(vi) The animal tries to build a nest and beds e.g as in the rabbit
(vii) Loss of appetite

definition of parturition

Parturition is the process of delivery of the fully grown fetus on the completion of the normal pregnancy period. … Parturition is one of the most important events for the farmers as by this act of his animal he would derive gain in terms of milk or sale of animal and its progeny.

These changes include the softening and thinning of the cervix, the rupture of the amniotic sac (also known as the \”water breaking\”), and the contractions of the uterus.

There are three stages of labour:

Stage 1: This is the longest stage and is further divided into three phases. The latent phase involves the early contractions and the dilation of the cervix.

The active phase is characterized by more frequent and intense contractions, leading to further dilation. The transitional phase is the final part of stage 1, where the cervix fully dilates to 10 centimetres.

Stage 2: This is the pushing stage, where the mother actively pushes the baby through the birth canal. The contractions continue, and with each contraction, the baby moves closer to being born.

During this stage, the head of the baby typically crowns as it emerges from the birth canal.

Stage 3: This is the delivery of the placenta. After the baby is born, the uterus continues to contract, causing the placenta to separate from the uterine wall.

The placenta is then expelled from the mother\’s body.

Throughout the process, healthcare professionals, such as midwives or doctors, monitor the mother and baby\’s vital signs and provide necessary support and medical interventions if needed.

It\’s important to note that while the process of parturition is generally natural, there can be variations and complications that may require medical intervention or assistance, such as the need for cesarean section (C-section) delivery.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER PARTURITION

After parturition, both the mother and baby require postnatal care to ensure their well-being and recovery.

This includes monitoring the mother for any postpartum complications and providing care for the newborn, such as feeding, warmth, and overall health assessment.