Obstetrics in elephants

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Reproductive Biology
• Elephant Conservation

Background:

• Obstetrics is a well-established veterinary field, but elephant reproductive anatomy presents unique challenges.
• Aging captive elephant populations and older primiparous females necessitate advanced birth management.
• Intrauterine infections, uterine inertia, and urogenital pathologies are significant causes of elephant dystocia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on elephant birth and factors contributing to dystocia.
• To summarize recommendations for managing elephant birth and dystocia.
• To identify research gaps in elephant obstetrics.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current scientific knowledge on elephant reproduction and obstetrics.
• Analysis of factors associated with dystocia in elephants.
• Synthesis of recommendations for birth and dystocia management strategies.

Main Results:

• Elephant reproductive tract dimensions and anatomy limit veterinary intervention options compared to domestic animals.
• Cesarean sections are not a viable option for elephants due to high mortality rates.
• Non-invasive treatments, induction of the Fergusson reflex, and voluntary expulsion are key management strategies.

Conclusions:

• Effective elephant obstetrics relies on non-invasive medical treatments and careful management due to anatomical limitations.
• Surgical interventions like episiotomy and fetotomy carry significant risks of complications or fatality.
• Further research is needed on calcium levels, hormone pharmacokinetics, and exogenous hormone effects to advance elephant obstetrics.