Puerperium - Bitch

Also see General Puerperium

Since the bitch is monocyclic, parturition is followed by anoestrus. The onset of the next oestrus is unpredictable.

  • Regression of the corpora lutea of pregnancy is initially rapid.
  • By 1-2 weeks postpartum, corpora lutea are reduced in size.
  • Regression of corpora lutea after this period is much slower.
  • Rate of involution is similar to other species.
  • Uterine horns restored to their pregravid size by 4 weeks postpartum.
  • Lochial discharge immediately postpartum.
    • Green due to uteroverdin
    • Changed to blood-stained mucoid discharge within 12 hours.
    • Volume of lochia should be scant and resolves between 3 - 6 weeks post whelping.
  • In the non-pregnant bitch, the surface of the endometrium undergoes desquamation followed by regeneration.
    • Repair is complete by 120 days after the onset of oestrus.
  • After pregnancy and normal parturition, the time taken for regeneration is ~ 2 weeks longer.
    • Desquamation of the endometrial lining begins at 6 weeks postpartum and is complete by 7 weeks.
    • The whole regeneration process is complete by 12 weeks postpartum.