Vaginal and Cervicovaginal ProlapseClinical signs, differential diagnosis, treatment and prevention in cattle and sheep.

Overview

Protrusion of the vaginal wall, most common in pregnant ewes and cows in late gestation. Relaxation of pelvic and vaginal supporting tissue under hormonal influence in late pregnancy, worsened by increased abdominal pressure (fat body condition, multiple fetuses, or a high-bulk diet).

Clinical signs

Protrusion of the vaginal and/or cervical mucosa through the vulvar lips.
The exposed cervical os becomes severely edematous, inflamed, and congested.
Although uncomfortable, it seldom interrupts pregnancy or directly predisposes to dystocia or postpartum uterine prolapse.

Predisposing factors

Advanced gestation (pelvic tissues lose structural holding power in late pregnancy); excessive abdominal pressure; and hereditary predisposition.

Treatment

Manual reduction of the prolapsed tissue followed by retention.
Retention is best achieved by inserting a Buhner suture (a deeply buried, circumferential suture placed around the vestibulum to replicate the support of constrictor vestibuli muscles).
The Buhner suture must be removed before parturition to prevent extensive laceration.
Alternatively, permanent vaginal fixation can be achieved using the Johnson button technique (suturing through the sacrospinotuberal ligament and gluteal muscles) or by anchoring the cervix to the prepubic tendon or iliopsoas muscle.

Prevention

Manage calving difficulties and ensure careful obstetric assistance to minimize severe straining.

Source

The Merck Veterinary Manual 11th Edition (Passage 277)

MSD Veterinary Manual — Vaginal Prolapse in Animals (accessed 2026-08-11)

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