Normally, birth is a rapid process in the mare. The foal is often out in less than 20 minutes from the beginning of the contractions. Early recognition of a problem is essential to save the foal. The placenta detaches rapidly after labor begins, usually less than 30 minutes. If the foal is not out of the birth canal by this time, he will suffocate. It is an unfortunate fact that this gives you very little time to get professional help to correct a problem and save the foal. Usually saving the mare is the best you can expect by the time help arrives. In this article we will discuss some of the more common and simple to correct malpositions.

Review, before the foal comes: Normal Birth in the Reproduction Area.

In every birth I have attended there was always a moment when I grew nervous that things were not going fast enough. This is normal. Realize that interfering with a normal birth is dangerous to you and the unborn foal. If you are unsure if anything is wrong: Do not do anything. Your very presence is disturbing the mare, remain quiet and still during the birth. Keep a watch handy and note accurately how much time has passed.