Clinical management of postpartum hemorrhage following failure of cervical dilation in an alpaca

Abstract

A 9 year old female Huacaya alpaca was maintained on exogenous progesterone (hydroxyprogesterone caproate) during pregnancy due to previous pregnancy loss. Dystocia due to partial failure of cervical dilation at 345 days of gestation was complicated by rupture of the vaginal artery. Severe hemorrhage was treated with application of pressure to the vaginal artery by use of a vaginal tampon, and administration of aminocaproic acid, supplemental oxygen, and fluid therapy. After stabilization, the female was treated for retained placenta and anemia. Unique features of this case include treatment of postpartum hemorrhage with aminocaproic acid, documentation of luteal insufficiency, and failure of cervical dilation after use of exogenous progesterone during pregnancy.