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==Introduction==
Uterine inertia describes the '''failure of the uterus''' to expel a foetus normally and is a common cause of [[Dystocia - Dog & Cat|'''canine and feline dystocia''']].
Uterine inertia can be '''primary or secondary'''.
== Primary Uterine Inertia ==
This describes the '''total or partial absence of contractions''' to expel a normal foetus through an unobstructed birth canal.
Several causes have been found:
:'''Breed predisposition'''
:'''Large litter''' overstretching the uterus
:'''Small litter''' not stimulating the uterus enough. Small foetuses cannot apply enough pressure on the uterine wall and cervix to set up the [[Parturition Endocrine Control - Anatomy & Physiology#Ferguson Reflex|Fergusson reflex]].
:'''Systemic disease''': Obesity and lack of exercise, [[hypocalcaemia]], septicaemia.
Complete primary uterine inertia occurs if '''2nd stage labour''' does not begin. Partial inertia occurs if the 2nd stage begins but contractions soon fail.
== Secondary Uterine Inertia ==
Uterine muscles become '''exhausted after prolonged contraction''' against an obstructing or oversized foetus or during birth of a large litter. There is usually subclinical '''hypocalcaemia and/or hypoglycaemia'''.
This can occur in the sow, bitch and guinea pig.
[[Category:Reproductive Disorders]][[Category:Parturition]]
==Diagnosis==
'''Physical examination''' may help identify foetuses in the birth canal. Digital examination of the vagina will also enable the uterine and vaginal tone to be assessed.
Lack of a response to pressure per vaginum indicates a '''lack of the [[Parturition Endocrine Control - Anatomy & Physiology#Ferguson Reflex|Ferguson reflex]]''' which indicates uterine intertia.
'''Radiography''' can be taken to assess the number and size of foetuses.
'''Ultrasound''' can help assess foetal viability.
==Treatment==
If the bitch is in good condition with normal sized puppies and no obstruction, '''medical treatment''' can be attempted.
'''Oxytocin''' can be administered intramuscularly, repeated at 30 minutes for a maximum of 3 injections.
'''Calcium gluconate''' or dextrose solution can also be administered if a suspicion of hypocalcaemia or hypoglycaemia exists.
A '''caesarean section''' is indicated if there is no response to the oxytocin, or if the foetuses are too large for a vaginal birth.
<big>'''See also: [[Dystocia - Dog & Cat#Clinical approach to dystocia in small animals|Clinical Approach to Dystocia in the Dog and Cat]]'''</big>
{{Learning
|flashcards = [[Small Animal Soft Tissue Surgery Q&A 12]]
}}
==References==
Pasquini, C. (1999) '''Tschauner's Guide to Small Animal Clinics''' ''Sudz Publishing''
Slatter, D. (2002) '''Textbook of small animal surgery''' ''Elsevier Health Sciences''
Noakes, D. (2001) '''Arthur's Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics''' ''Elsevier Health Sciences''
{{review}}
==Webinars==
<rss max="10" highlight="none">https://www.thewebinarvet.com/urogenital-and-reproduction/webinars/feed</rss>
[[Category:Expert Review - Small Animal]]
[[Category:Reproductive Disorders]][[Category:Parturition]][[Category:Reproductive Diseases - Dog]]