Artificial insemination (AI) and embryo transfer (ET) play an important role in the genetic improvement of sheep herds. This review primarily describes the methods that have recently been researched and/or adapted to circumvent the problematic anatomy of the ovine cervix, which prevents the widespread application of transcervical AI and ET in this species. A mechanism of cervical ripening at pa...

The cervix is a biochemically active tissue that changes its biomechanical properties in a remodeling process during pregnancy to be prepared for parturition. This maturation process is associated with changes of the mechanical properties of the cervical stroma. Preterm delivery is connected with undesired cervical changes bound to cervical ripening. Non-destructive evaluation using ultrasonic ...

BACKGROUND Misoprostol has been extensively researched for its use in obstetrics and has proved to be a very effective cervical softening agent before termination of pregnancy. The beneficial effects on cervical ripening may make misoprostol a desirable agent for helping cervical dilatation on non pregnant women also. The objective is to study the efficacy of preoperative vaginal application of...

BACKGROUND At term, cervical ripening in coordination with uterine contractions becomes a prerequisite for a normal vaginal delivery. Currently, cervical ripening is considered to occur independently from uterine contractions. Many evidences suggest that cervical ripening resembles an inflammatory process. Comparatively little attention has been paid to the increased flexibility of the pelvic s...

BACKGROUND This is one of a series of reviews of methods of cervical ripening and labour induction using standardised methodology. The use of complementary therapies is rising and some women look to complementary therapies during pregnancy and childbirth to be used alongside conventional medical practice. Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles into specific points of the body. ...