MATERNAL CONDITIONS THAT CAUSE HIGH-RISK PREGNANCY IN MARES

Pregnancies that result in maternal or fetal injury are considered to be high risk. Fetal health can be compromised by primary maternal conditions that affect nonreproductive systems, the uterus, or the abdominal supports and pelvic canal. Secondary complications, such as endotoxemia, hyperlipemia, and hemostatic alterations, can cause further fetal insult. Recognizing maternal disease conditions usually is straightforward; however, determining the effect on the fetus is more difficult. By aggressive and appropriate treatment of the primary condition, injury to the mare and fetus can be limited. The effects of treatment of maternal disease on fetal health are largely unknown; however, hypoxia during general anesthesia in late gestation has been linked to fetal compromise. When treating maternal conditions that may affect the fetus, fetal health can be supported by maintaining maternal oxygenation and vascular perfusion. The optimum way to treat the foal is to provide excellent maternal care.