FFA Veterinary Science CDE Practice Test

What term describes the stage in a cow's reproductive cycle when the fetal membranes are expelled after birth?

1. Cervical dilation

2. Fetal expulsion

3. Afterbirth

4. Gestation

The correct answer is: Afterbirth

The stage in a cow's reproductive cycle when the fetal membranes are expelled after birth is referred to as "afterbirth." This term specifically describes the postpartum process of the placenta and fetal membranes being delivered from the uterus. It is a crucial part of the birthing process, as the proper expulsion of the afterbirth is essential for the health of both the cow and the calf. Retained afterbirth can lead to complications such as infection or uterine inflammation. Cervical dilation refers to the opening of the cervix during labor, which occurs before the expulsion of the fetus and afterbirth. Fetal expulsion is the process of the calf being born, which happens prior to the expulsion of the afterbirth. Gestation is the entire period of pregnancy, from conception to the moment of birth, and does not specifically refer to the expulsion of the fetal membranes. Each of these terms relates to different aspects of the reproductive cycle, but "afterbirth" is the precise term for the expulsion of the membranes following the birth of the calf.