CHAPTER VII. 



DISEASES OF THE VAGINA AND VULVA. 



Examination. — It is possible to make a thorough examina- 

 tion of the vagina and vulva by direct inspection. The animal 

 should be placed in a dorsal position with the hind limbs 

 hoppled forward. The vulva can be inspected directly by 

 separating the labia with the fingers. The condition of the 

 mucosa should be observed, any wounds or injuries carefully 

 examined to determine their depth and extent. Note the 

 color of the mucosa. It should be remembered that in the 

 bitch there is often a normal pigmentation of the mucosa 

 which should not be mistaken for some diseased condition. 

 Papillomata and fibromata are commonly found at the junc- 

 ture of the skin and mucous membrane. The vagina may be 

 inspected by using a speculum to dilate the vulva and a 

 portion of the vagina so that the mucosa can be seen. It is 

 best to use an artificial light with a reflector to observe the 

 mucosa farther into the pelvic canal. The mucosa should 

 be examined for wounds and injuries which are common 

 sequels to dystocia, inflammation, tumors, prolapsus, con- 

 strictions, etc. 



CONGENITAL MALFORMATIONS. 



Various forms of malformations have been observed in the 

 bitch and cat. Stenosis of the vagina is seen occasionally. 

 Imperfect development of the vulva, vagina and anus during 

 fetal life has been noted. These conditions may interfere 

 with copulation and impregnation. "When found an attempt 

 should be made to correct them surgically. 



VAGINITIS AND VULVITIS. 



Definition. — An acute or chronic inflammation of the vagina 

 and vulva. These are very common conditions found in both 

 the bitch and cat. 



