Approximately how long after parturition should the afterbirth be expelled?

• A. 6 hours
• B. Approximately 12 hours
• C. 24 hours
• D. 48 hours

Answer: (B)

Afterbirth expulsion timing refers to how long after birth the placenta should pass. In many livestock species, the placenta typically detaches and is expelled within about 12 hours after parturition. This window helps prevent retained placenta, which can lead to uterine infection, inflammation, and other postpartum complications that hinder recovery and future fertility. A 12-hour timeframe strikes a balance between giving the placenta time to detach properly and avoiding the risks that come with prolonged retention. Pushing for it to occur much earlier, like around 6 hours, isn’t always realistic for all animals, while waiting 24 or 48 hours is considered abnormal and risky, warranting veterinary attention.