Uterine Lavage

Mares in estrus may be lavaged one or more days prior to breeding to remove accumulated fluid or as part of a therapeutic plan for mares with infectious endometritis. It is common to lavage a mare with 1-3 liters or more of sterile 0.9% saline or lactated Ringer's solution (LRS). A uterine lavage may be required after breeding or insemination in mares with persistentmating-induced endometritis. The goal is to remove dead sperm, inflammatory cells, debris, and other material and prevent or limit the sperm-induced inflammatory response. In the postpartum mare, a uterine lavage may be performed in the event of a retained placenta, prolonged discharge of lochia, or metritis. This chapter discusses the step by step procedure for lavage of the equine uterus with illustrations, and the equipment and supplies needed. It also discusses the necessary conditions to be followed for the lavage of the equine uterus.