Endometritis, the inflammation of the uterine lining in mares, can be a sneaky foe. It’s caused by various bacteria, with Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus (BHS) being a common culprit. These bacteria can sometimes be like sleeping saboteurs, existing in a dormant state within the uterus. This makes them difficult to detect and eliminate, leading to breeding difficulties and pregnancy loss for your mare. Traditional diagnostic methods like swabs might miss these hidden threats.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Culture negative swab
- Difficulty getting pregnant
- Early pregnancy loss
- Vaginal discharge
- Prolonged heat cycles
- Lethargy or discomfort
Treatment Options:
- Antibiotics: Once the bacteria are identified, targeted antibiotics can be used. However, dormant bacteria are like shielded soldiers, resisting antibiotics because they’re not actively multiplying.
- Uterine lavage: Flushing the uterus can help remove bacteria and debris.
- Anti-inflammatory medications: These can help manage discomfort and inflammation.
The Challenge of the Sleeping Saboteurs:
Even with these methods, some mares might continue to struggle due to dormant bacterial infections. This is where innovative solutions like bActivate come into play.
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