A critical review of current methods for induction of parturition in the mare.

The research paper critically reviews the existing methods for inducing labor in horses, evaluating their effectiveness and safety. The paper contends that insufficient evidence exists to support regular use of the methods.

Discussion: Induction Agents

• The researchers discuss oxytocin, dexamethasone and prostaglandin, which are used individually or together to induce labor in mares.
• They argue that currently, there is insufficient scientific evidence to support the regular use of any of these inducing agents in veterinary practice.
• Oxytocin is cited as the most commonly used agent and is thought by some to be without side-effects. However, the researchers express reservations about its unqualified safety.
• The synthetic prostaglandin analogue, fluprostenol, appears to pose the least risk to the unborn foal from the reviewed inducers.
• Dexamethasone is considered either ineffective as an inducing agent, or too dangerous to use due to potential harmful side-effects.

Current Usage and Indications for Induced Foaling

• The researchers state that the main reasons for inducing labor in mares are due to management convenience or for academic research and teaching purposes.
• They cite few clinical indications for inducing labor in horses. However, instances such as ventral rupture and extended gestation periods are mentioned as possible reasons for induced labor

Prerequisites for Decision-making in Induced Labor

• The research paper highlights the importance of assessing fetal maturity before making a decision to induce labor in mares.
• Three criteria are outlined as essential for this decision making process: a pregnancy period of over 320 days; significant mammary development; and the presence of colostrum (first milk) in the mammary glands.