Understanding dystocia in the field: part 1

Abstract

Difficult births (dystocias) are not uncommon for horses and present significant risks to mare and foal, with potentially fatal consequences. A sound understanding of the normal physiological processes before and during parturition are essential to enable vets to quickly identify when these processes deviate from the norm. To rapidly diagnose the cause of the dystocia, the attending obstetrician should be assured in their approach; resolute in their decision making; and prompt in action if the risks of mare and foal morbidity and mortality are to be managed. Constructive communication with the mare's owners is essential to allow adequate planning to prioritise the outcome. The future fertility of the mare is imperative in many cases yet is often overlooked. The obstetrician must be dynamic and be prepared to alter their approach when necessary. This review outlines the causes of dystocia and the recommended approaches to resolution.