Normal Pregnancy

10.4 NORMAL PREGNANCY

The process of pregnancy is similar in most animals. The following details are true for most types of livestock - except poultry.

The fertilized egg in the oviduct moves to the uterus where it continues to grow. The fertilized egg is called an “embryo” and, as it begins to take shape, a “fetus.” The length of time from fertilization until the baby is born is called the “gestation period.” The length of the gestation period varies by animals. (See Breeding Table on previous page).

Throughout pregnancy, the cervix is closed tightly with a plug of thick mucus that prevents germs from entering the uterus and infecting the baby. The baby is also surrounded by a fluid (called “amniotic fluid”) that forms a cushion and protects the baby from injury. The baby is fed by the nutrients that pass from the mother's blood, through the placenta and umbilicus, and into the baby's blood.