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==Introduction==
==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 describes the '''failure of the uterus''' to expel a foetus normally and is a common cause of [[Dystocia - Dog & Cat|'''canine and feline dystocia''']].
:'''Breed predisposition'''
:'''Breed predisposition'''
:'''Large litter''' overstretching the uterus
:'''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|Fergusson reflex]].
:'''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 excercise, hypocalcaemia, septicaemia.
:'''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.
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 ==
== Secondary Uterine Inertia ==
Uterine muscles become '''exhausted after prolonged contractio'''n against an obstructing or oversized foetus or during birth of a large litter. There is usually subclinical '''hypocalcaemia and/or hypoglycaemia'''.
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.
This can occur in the sow, bitch and guinea pig.
==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.
<big>'''See also: [[Dystocia - Dog & Cat|Dystocia in the Dog and Cat]]'''</big>
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
{{Learning
Noakes, D. (2001) '''Arthur's Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics''' ''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]]
[[Category:Reproductive Disorders]][[Category:Parturition]][[Category:Reproductive Diseases - Dog]]