Uterine clearance in sows is an important husbandry technique used to remove residues from the uterus, preventing health issues like endometritis. During this procedure, it’s crucial to consider the sow’s physical condition, sanitize the reproductive organs, and use appropriate medication and infusion tubes. Proper uterine clearance ensures the sow’s reproductive health and enhances the efficiency of pig farming.
Throughout a sow’s reproductive process, due to various reasons, situations like retained placenta, miscarriages, etc., may occur, leading to residue buildup in the uterus and consequent issues like endometritis. Let’s delve into this problem and its methods today.
I. What are the circumstances that require uterine clearance in sows?
- Retained Placenta: If a sow fails to expel the entire placenta after giving birth, bacteria may breed inside the sow’s body, potentially leading to diseases like endometritis.
- Dystocia in Sows: During a sow’s delivery, complications such as dystocia might occur, necessitating assisted delivery. However, this manual intervention could lead to increased uterine residues. If not cleared promptly, it may result in infections and complications.
- Post-Miscarriage in Sows: Following a miscarriage, the uterus of the sow may retain substances like placenta, fetus, and secretions, which can become a breeding ground for bacteria, causing uterine infections.
To prevent other health issues in sows, long-term use of specific nutritional supplements like vitamins and mycotoxin binders can be employed to regulate the sow’s reproductive system and prevent various reproductive system disorders.
II. What is the method for uterine clearance in sows?
- Examination of the Sow’s Body: Before conducting the uterine clearance procedure, it’s essential to ensure the suitability of the sow for the operation. Simultaneously, disinfection of the sow’s reproductive organs is crucial to prevent infections and cross-contamination.
- Preparation of Uterine Clearance Medication: Preparing the uterine clearance medication in advance is necessary to perform uterine clearance, expel retained placenta, discharge lochia, and treat endometritis.
- Preparation of Infusion Tubes: During the uterine clearance process, using infusion tubes facilitates the injection of medication into the uterus. Sterile infusion tubes should be prepared in advance.
- Conducting Uterine Clearance: Initially, insert one end of the infusion tube into the sow’s uterus, then inject the medication into the uterus from the other end, completing the uterine clearance procedure.
