Veterinary evaluation of fetal well-being in the horse. Literature review

According to the up-to-date literature the ability to diagnose fetal distress is the first step towards decreasing perinatal morbidity and mortality in the foal. Hematology and biochemistry are useful for assessing the general health status of the mare. The concentration of alpha-fetoprotein is increased throughout normal pregnancy. In case of pregnancy failures (twins, embrionic loss, abortion, congenital defects, placentitis) lower or higher values can be measured. The equine biophysical profile is a promising diagnostic tool for well-being of the fetus and the mare. Postpartum examination of the placenta has been suggested to be essential because the placenta appeared to be closely associated with foal vitality, well-being and quality.