A uterine prolapse is when the womb (uterus) is turned inside out and pushed through the birth canal by abdominal strainings of the ewe. It may occur immediately after lambing or several days later. A uterine prolapse is a life-threatening condition. Before the prolapsed uterus is be manually forced back into the ewe, the ewe’s hindquarters should be raised.
The uterus should be cleaned with a warm, soapy, disinfectant solution prior to replacement and should be replaced before the tissues become dry or chilled. Pouring water into the uterus will help to ensure that the tips of the horns are unfolded. Affected ewes should be given antibiotics and oxytocin. Unlike ewes that prolapse their vaginas, it is okay to keep a ewe that has prolapsed her uterus.