separation of the pubic symphysis. Gently run your finger down her spine towards her genitals and just before you reach it there are 2 small bones directly in front of it, these are the pelvic bones. Signs of impending labour include the separation of the pelvic bones to let the pups through (over 2 - 4 days before pregnancy - feel the pelvis at the base of the spine). Separation of males and females. The symphysis is a fibrocartilaginous bridge binding together the right and left pubic bones that form the lower part of the pelvic canal. Thanks to all who help! I just know that she's getting close and I kinda need to know how to tell if my guinea pigs pelvic bones are seperating to make room for the babies to pass through. Dystocia in Guinea Pigs. In adult female guinea-pigs, the interpubic joint is a non-synovial joint of the cartilaginous type that is movable and connected to the pubic bones by fibrous (symphysis) cartilage [4]. Dystocia is a clinical condition in which the process of giving birth is slowed or is made difficult for the birthing mother. … The Biology of the Guinea Pig, Joseph E. Wagner, Patrick J. Dystocia occurs commonly in guinea pigs and may be due to uterine inertia, pregnancy toxemia, fetuses that are too large to pass through the pelvic canal, or because the os coxae fail to separate, despite relaxin release, to the 2.5–3 cm needed to allow a fetus to pass. In sows (pregnant guinea pigs), this is usually caused by the normal stiffening of the tough fibrous cartilage which joins the two pubic bones – medically referred to as the symphysis. Ok my guinea pig is really huge now and at least 7 weeks into her pregnancy. Your pig may also loose interest in food, and her daily habits may change (particularly toileting patterns). This was already noted by Le Gallois in 1812 who described how a fetus having an average head diameter of 20 mm. allowing considerable separation of the pubic bones. Gently placing your guinea pig on her back on your chest and feel for the 2 small bones directly in front of her genitals. l.-The Picture on the left is from an x-r&~ of Guinea Pig 408 taken three days before she was mated. If you gently rest your finger between the pelvic bones and the gap is about as wide as your finger (about 1 inch) then she should have babies within the next hour-2 days. Number 2. Abstract. Bree I have never ever had my other guinea pigs hurt the babies, even when i had 5 other females in the cage. I don't know exactly when she become pregnant so that doens't help any. This stiffening makes it difficult for the sow’s young to pass through the birth canal. Keep them all together, they are like a support system for the new mum. Breeding after 8 months of age can be fatal for a guinea pig that has not had a previous litter due to dystocia. 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