Dystocia

Dystocia is a significant cause of neonatal loss in small ruminants. Complications from dystocia are a major welfare concern. This chapter describes the clinical approach to dystocia in sheep and goats. The epidemiology, maternal causes, and fetal causes of dystocia are presented. An assessment of the female and fetus, along with a thorough history, is crucial for the diagnosis of the situation and decision-making regarding the best obstetrical approach. The approach to specific obstetrical situations is discussed, including uterine inertia, failure or incomplete dilation of the cervix, fetomaternal disposition, uterine torsion, and fetal maldisposition.