Mechanisms and therapy for retained fetal membranes and uterine infections of cows: A review.

Literature pertaining to retained fetal membranes and postpartum uterine infections of cows was reviewed. Many therapeutic failures are explained by the effects of the uterine environment on antibacterials, the effects of therapy on the uterine defense mechanism, bacterial resistance patterns and the failure to recognize normal physiological processes in the postpartum period. Prostaglandin F(2)alpha and its analogues provide effective alternatives to antibiotic and antibacterial therapy for most postpartum disorders.