Animal Welfare

Standard Operating Procedures - pigs
Farrowing assistance per vagina

Objective

To assist farrowing in the case of dystocia.

Alternatives to animal use for teaching

Nil

Details of procedure

Clean the perineum of the sow before gently inserting a gloved, well lubricated hand into the vagina. Pass the arm forward through to the body of the uterus. Locate foetuses, correct their alignment (if necessary) and slowly withdraw.

Procedure may be repeated at half hourly intervals until farrowing is complete. Do not forcibly remove the placenta.

Drugs, chemicals, or biological agents

Obstetrical lubricant.

Impact of procedure on the wellbeing of animal(s)

The procedure is well tolerated.

Reuse and repeated use

Sows should only be assisted until the dystocia is corrected.

Care of animal(s) during/after procedure

Attention to sterility, use of gentle techniques. Cover with antibiotic therapy. Nursing care. Observe over following 48 hours for complications.

Pain relief measures

Nil required.

Qualifications, experience or training necessary to perform this procedure

Demonstrator: Experience with farrowing sows.

Students: Understanding of farrowing anatomy and physiology.