Persistent microperforate hymen as a rare maternal cause of dystocia in a ewe

Abstract

AbstractSuccessful management of obstetrical emergency, such as dystocia, is essential to prevent huge economic loss to sheep farming. Dystocia can lead to mortality of both the dam and the fetus, if timely correct diagnosis and feasible intervention are delayed. The present case describes an uncommon obstetrical emergency, that is, dystocia due to a rare condition of persistent microperforate hymen as a maternal factor for dystocia. A primiparous, crossbred ewe (aged 1.5 years) was presented at our clinic as an obstetrical emergency at full term. After a complete history was taken, a physical (including per vaginum) examination was performed. This allowed a diagnosis of a persistent microperforate hymen. Management included excision of the transverse band followed by assisted delivery. The ewe recovered successfully, and survived along with its lamb, at least until the post‐operative check at 3 weeks.