Birthing creates a situation where the inside of the uterus is exposed to the elements of the outside world, including bacteria, dirt, manure, and bedding. This, combined with a challenged immune system, creates potential for uterus infections.
First, let's define what is normal. The inside of the uterus is sealed from the outside world by the muscular cervix. The cervix opens slightly when an animal is in heat, allowing sperm to enter when naturally serviced or for a pipette to pass easily if AI bred. The cervix fully opens (dilates) to allow for the birthing to occur. The inside of the uterus is sterile while the fetus is developing. The vagina, the space between the cervix and the outside world, is inhabited by bacteria with Lacto bacillus being the predominant species.
During the birthing process, the cervix dilates initially because of hormonal influences. This dilation is enhanced by inward pressure of the amnionic sac - commonly called the 'water bag" - and the emerging fetus, as they are being pushed by muscular uterine contractions and abdominal pressing. If all proceeds normally, the newborn emerges and shortly after the placenta, the "cleanings" is released from the uterine connection and is expelled. Upon expulsion, the uterus contracts and the cervix starts to close.
Uterine contamination is common during this process. In the birthing process, the animal often lays down and gets up as the fetus and placenta are being advanced. Each time this occurs, whatever is outside and in contact with the ground or bedding gets sucked back in. Usually this happens many times before birthing is finally accomplished. This is why I say the cleanest area on the farm should be the maternity pen. However, it is also the hardest area to keep clean.
Contamination is further complicated if the placenta does not quickly get expelled, commonly referred to as an RP (retained placenta) or "didn't clean". Normally, this should occur within hours. If placenta is hanging out past the uvula, the same cycle occurs when the animal lays down and the placenta is in the manure or on the ground and it sucks back in when she gets up.
So now we have two scenarios:
If she passes her placenta quickly, there is some contamination in the vagina and the uterus. Usually the immune system handles this without our intervention. While the immune system is compromised systemically around birthing, it actually is enhanced and focused on the uterus and udder. Normal involution of the uterus, returning to normal, will show some drainage called lochia, it is reddish/pinkish, has nor odor, and is thick in consistency. Nothing needs to be done to these animals.
The second scenario is the placenta does not pass and acts as a wick for bacteria to cause an infection in the uterus. This is characterized by an odor and thin, watery reddish or brownish discharge. Often times the animal will run a fever, decrease feed consumption, and strain. These animals are sick and need intervention, as the infection can be systemic and the toxins in the uterus can be absorbed as well. Systemically we must target the bacterial infection. Conventionally this is often done with antibiotics like Excene/Excede, Cefenil, or ampicillin. The inflammation and fever is managed by flunixamine.
In the organic/natural realm, these are the products I use to manage uterus infections:
- CEG Tincture - orally, once or twice a day
- Dull It Tincture - orally, once or twice a day
- Caulophyllum Tincture - orally, once a day
- Aloe Pellets or Aloe C drench
- Bovine Boost Paste
Check the product directions for specific dosage instructions.
Of particular note - the Caulophyllum Tincture allows the cervix to remain open and the uterus to stay toned, making it easier for the placenta and fluid to be expelled.
I am an advocate of infusing an infected uterus with certain considerations:
- Wait until the second day after calving
- Be very clean when entering the vagina
- Use lots of lubrication
- Be gentle
- Do no more frequently than every other day
- Do only for the first seven days post-partum
This is the recipe I use for cows:
- 150 cc Aloe C
- 150 cc water
- 1/2 bottle of Impro Uterine C.A.R.E.
- 6 cc First Step Tincture
I use a large syringe and pipette to administer. Can be proportionally modified for other species.
If you don't feel comfortable infusing, the Dr. Paul Fresh Cow boluses can be administered through an open cervix, usually within the first four days after birthing. Infusion can be done at the same time as the boluses. These boluses are suitable for cows only.
Additional Tip: offering pail(s) of warm water immediately after birthing seems to facilitate the passing of the placenta.