GetBreeding

As we start the final approach to 2009, I’m thinking ahead to the first foalings of next season. We all hope that foalings always go to plan, but sometimes (we estimate 6-8% of the time) something goes wrong. One of the problems is premature placental separation, also known as a “red bag” delivery. Would you know what to do if you had a red bag delivery?

Premature placental separation

If you see a red velvety membrane (the chorio-allantois) protruding from the vulva before the foal is delivered, then you have a case of premature placental separation, otherwise known as “red bag delivery”. Because the foal is dependent on the placenta for its oxygen supply prior to being delivered, if the placenta separates prematurely, then the foal is immediately being starved of oxygen. This situation is a true emergency, and action must be taken immediately if the foal is to have any chance of survival. You have 4-5 minutes before the foal is starved of oxygen, at which point its chance of survival decreases dramatically.

As soon as the red membrane becomes visible it must be ruptured immediately. You can rupture the placenta with your hands without too much trouble, but you may need to use a scalpel or scissors (in which case, take great care). Once fully ruptured, fluid should gush out – this is normal as you have simulated what should have happened when the waters break. The chances are that the foal will present normally (forelegs, soles down and nose), but you still need to assist the birth, as the foal will need to be out of the mare before it can begin breathing fully. Rupture the white membrane of the amnion, and assist the mare by pulling carefully but firmly on the foals front legs in conjunction with the mares own contractions.

A red bag delivery may occur by chance, but is commonly associated with placentitis (an infection of the placenta). Placentitis causes a thickening & toughening of the placenta, and in a red bag delivery, this placenta will be too strong to break with fingers alone. Careful use of scissors or a blade will be required to make a hole in the placenta. The foal is also likely to be weak, and may have septicaemia. It will require specialist veterinary treatment.

Once the foal is out, it should start breathing on its own very quickly. If it does not, you will need to start mouth-to-nose breathing (not mouth-to-mouth). Straighten out the foals head and neck, and breathe out into one of the foal’s nostrils, covering the other nostril firmly with your hand. If you are doing it correctly, you will see the foal’s ribcage expand with each breath.

Quick action with a red bag delivery will lead to a live birth in most cases.