DISEASES OF THE ORGANS OF REPRODUCTION IN THE FEMALE 89 



some antiseptic (see Antiseptics), and regard must be had to the composi- 

 tion of any drug subsequently employed, or some chemical decomposition 

 may neutralize the effects of the agents used. For example, the mistake 

 is often made of employing permanganate of potash as an antiseptic and 

 glycerine as an emollient, the two being incompatible. 



A solution of chinosol in the proportion of one in six hundred is very 

 suitable for irrigating the womb or for saturating the sponge, if it is 

 decided to introduce one. In severe cases, where collapse is feared, the 

 stronger styptic of perchloride of iron or somewhat dilute vinegar may be 

 substituted for cold-water injections. Solutions of tannic acid, or glycerine- 

 of-tannic acid (where permanganate or Condy's fluid has not been used), or 

 of witch hazel should be used. The latter being held in great esteem for 

 the purpose in America. 



It may be advisable, while these measures are proceeding, to apply cold 

 douches over the loins, at which time a small dose of some alcoholic stimu- 

 lant should be given. It will be desirable also to give, in the form of 

 draught or ball, one or more of those internal styptics which act through 

 the medium of the circulation: gallic acid, salts of lead, morphia, tincture 

 of iron, ergot of rye, &c. Of the remedies last named, ergot is perhaps of 

 least value in mares, and the fact is mentioned because it is a drug so 

 highly valued in human medical practice. Should we fail with the 

 remedies above named, we have still left a class elsewhere described as 

 revulsives, in the shape of mustard cataplasms, which may be applied over 

 the region of the loins and upon the hollows of the flanks. Vigorous 

 rubbing and hot bandages should be applied to the legs, and plenty of 

 clothing to the body. 



There should be no attempt to counteract febrile symptoms, that may 

 subsequently develop, by purgative medicines, but rest should be secured 

 for the organs recently involved in what should always be regarded as 

 a serious mishap. Some bicarbonate of potash may be given in the 

 drinking-water, and the diet should be gently laxative during convales- 

 cence, linseed forming an important item in the menu (see Nursing and 

 Feeding of the Sick). 



INFLAMMATION OF THE WOMB 



Inflammation of the womb is technically known as Metritis, and dis- 

 tinctions are drawn between endo-metritis and metro-peritonitis, the former 

 affecting chiefly the internal layers of the uterus, while the latter includes 

 the investing peritoneal membrane common to all the abdominal organs. 

 At all times a serious sequel to parturition, it is the more feared from the 



