For Pre Partum Prolapse

Pre partum prolapse is the protrusion or bulging out of the cervico-vaginal organs during gestation period. Animals may prolapse before or after birthing. Vaginal prolapses will typically occur before delivery – usually in the heavily pregnant animal. A uterine prolapse can occur directly after the animal delivers. A common cause of vaginal prolapse is the pressure and weight of a large uterus in late pregnancy. Some heavily pregnant cattle will strain when passing stool while lying down, or begin straining from the irritation of a mild prolapse. Vaginitis (inflammation of the vagina), estrus, breeding or the presence of the calf’s head or feet within the pelvic canal can also cause a cow to strain until the vagina prolapses.

The vaginal prolapse is more common and looks like a pink mass of tissue about the size of a large grapefruit or volleyball. Prolapse of the uterus is a larger, longer mass, more deep red and covered with the “buttons” on which the placenta is attached. It should be treated as soon as possible to avoid complication and prevent threatening abortion.