The first stage of labor is often not outwardly observed. During this stage

	the cow uterus is contracting, pushing the calf into position to be delivered

	and the birth canal (cervix ) is being dilated.  This stage takes 2 - 6 hrs 

	in cows and 4 -10 hrs in heifers.  During this time the cow will be restless,

	eat less, spend most of the time laying down.   Most readily apparent external	

	sign of this stage of labor is complete relaxation of the pelvic/tail 

	head ligaments.

The second stage of labor begins with the entrance of the calf into the birth canal

	and ends with the birth of the calf.  This stage should only last  1/2 to 4 hours

	in cows and 2 - 6 hrs in heifers.

	Normal position of the calf is both front feet in the vagina with the calf's nose about at the level of the calf's knees. In a backwards position both back legs should be in the vagina.
	Most cows (over 90%) should be able to calve on their own without assistance.

	Indications to check a cow for calving problem

Any cow that has been restless, off feed laying down for more than 6 - 12

	 hours(cows ->heifers).

	Any cow with an abnormal discharge - bloody or smelly
	Any cow whose udder has decreased in size.
	Anytime the waterbag has been broken for more than 2 hours with no visible progress.
	Any cow with front feet protruding for 1 hour with no further progress.
	Any cow with back feet protruding for 1/2 hour with no progress.
	Any cow that does not make progress after several contractions as determined by the length

	of  legs out of vagina.

	Any time the frequency or strength of contractions is observed to have decreased
	Any time back feet are observed and cow has not delivered within 1/2 hour.

	Examination method 

	1)  Restrain the cow in a headgate, if cow is weak do not put in headgate, use a halter.

	  	Provide good footing (scrape floor and use sand if needed)

	2)  Tie the cows tail to the side or have an assistant hold it.

	3)  Clean the cows vulva thoroughly with soap and water.

	4)  Using a clean OB sleeve enter the vagina and determine the position of the calf, and the

	 	amount the vagina and cervix are dilated.

	Assistance Methods

	1)  Before applying any traction get calf into normal calving position:  

		a)  head first- Both front feet with nose between the ankles and knees.

		b)  backwards - Both back feet and tail on top.  IMPORTANT : If cervix is tight

	 	guide calf's tailhead thru the cervix by placing hand over top of calf's tailhead 

		while traction is applied in order to help dilate the cervix without tearing the 

		cervix or uterus.

	2)  Best to attach chains using a double half hitch above and below the fetlock (ankle)	joint.

	3)  Use lots of lube (J-Lube, Novalube, or mineral oil)

	4)  Pull with 2 - 3 "manpower", time pull so force is exerted as cow strains.

	5)  Remember it is usually better to have an uninjured cow than a live calf.

	6)  Stimulate the calf respiration by splashing cold water on its face, or inserting a 

	    straw in its nose, or slapping its chest.  If calf is still not breathing use 

	    the calf resuscitator to give it a few breaths.  Assist respirations by lifting

	    up on the foreleg and ribcage, hold, then compress chest.  Repeat 5 times on each 

	    side of chest.  Hanging calf by back legs is not recommended.