GB2571734A - Improvements in and relating to livestock birthing aids - Google Patents

Abstract

A birthing aid 10 for livestock, such as cattle or cows with dystocia, comprising an inflatable member 12, fluid commination 17 means to allow the device to be inflated or deflated, the inflatable member comprising two lateral sections 32, 33, a proximal front section 34 and a distal rear section 35, where the lateral width is greater than the longitudinal length. A central portion 30 defines a first void 36 and a second void 37 separated by a gripping portion 20. In use, the device is positioned within the birth canal of a cow in a deflated position, prior to the passage of the calf. The user can hold the gripping portion 20 so that the device remains in the birth canal during contractions. The device is inflated to replicate the size of the presenting foetus, such that the muscles of the birth canal are dilated sufficiently for labour to progress. There may be a supporting member 14 about which the inflatable member 12 is wrapper prior to insertion in the animal.

Description

Improvements in and Relating to Livestock Birthing Aids

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a birthing aid and, in particular, a birthing aid for a cow. The present invention also relates to a method of providing a birthing aid and, in particular, a method of providing a birthing aid for a cow.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

The present invention aims to provide a device for assisting in successful calving. It is commonplace for cows to have difficulties when calving, generally known as dystocia. A cow does not naturally significantly prepare for the birthing of a calf. This lack of natural preparation and lack of physical and biological changes to the cow can therefore make the delivery of a calf problematic. Accordingly, there is a relatively high risk of problems occurring when a cow is calving.

There are some methods and devices to assist in the birth of a calf. For example, obstetrical chains and handles can be used to assist in the birth of a calf. The chains or ropes must be carefully and skilfully applied in order to minimise damage to the calf and, in particular, the limbs of the calf. Such devices can easily result in a broken limb of the calf which may not heal very well. Similarly, such devices can result in a broken jaw for the calf which thereby provides further problems.

Another method of assisting in the birth of a calf includes using a commercial lubricant which is applied to the birth canal in order to facilitate the birthing process.

At present, an experienced stockman or a vet may facilitate the birth with a device to pull the calf through the birth canal with or without an added lubricant. The stockman or vet must time their actions in order to pull with the straining or

-2contractions of the cow. The stockman or vet must also follow the lines of the calf delivery and use the natural curvatures of a calf and the birth canal. The stockman or vet must be patient and await the expansion of the birth canal. At present, a well lubricated hand may be used as a shoehorn in order to help deliver the calf.

The stockman or vet, once experienced, may be able to handle most births but still some unexpected problems can arise. However, such an experienced person may not be available. In addition, the process can be time consuming and hence expensive for the farmer.

Many problems can occur and difficulties are caused by the birth canal not being expanded sufficiently. This thereby leaves a vet or stockman to slowly pull the calf through the birth canal thereby slowing expanding the birth canal. As mentioned above, this is labour intensive and usually requires an experienced stockman or vet.

One device which addresses the above problem is disclosed in GB 2 484 105. This device provides an inflatable bladder attached to an elongate member having an engaging portion located at the end thereof. This engaging portion is arranged to physically engage the pelvic structure of the cow. The inflatable bladder is arranged to be inflated by a hand pump which can be operated and squeezed with a palm of a user. The user thereby uses their experience to determine the amount of air to be introduced in order to inflate the bladder to the required size. This thereby relies on the skill and judgement of the user. The present invention aims to address these problems by providing an easier, safer and improved birthing aid.

It is an aim of the present invention to overcome at least one problem associated with the prior art whether referred to herein or otherwise.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

-3According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a birthing aid for livestock animals comprising an inflatable member, the inflatable member comprising:

a flexible bladder; and fluid communication means to enable the bladder to be inflated and deflated, the inflatable member further comprising:

a proximal end, a central section, and a distal end located along a longitudinal axis of the inflatable member and, in which, in use, the proximal end is arranged to locate within the birth canal towards the vulva of the animal, the central section is arranged to locate within a centre section of the birth canal and the distal end is arranged to locate at a distal end of the birth canal of the animal, and wherein the central section extends between a first lateral side and a second lateral side;

wherein a lateral width of the inflatable member is greater than a longitudinal length of the inflatable member in order for the inflatable member to inflate to a greater dimension in the lateral direction than in the longitudinal direction;

the central section defining a first void and a second void separated by a gripping section and, in which in use, the gripping section is manually held by a user to maintain a position of the inflatable member within the birth canal.

Preferably the gripping section comprises an inflatable gripping section.

Preferably the gripping section is manually held to retain the inflatable member within the birth canal of the animal.

The inflatable member may comprise two lateral inflatable sections.

The inflatable member may comprise two longitudinal (end) inflatable sections. The inflatable member may comprise a front (distal) inflatable section and a rear (proximal) inflatable section. The front inflatable section may comprise a first

-4segment and a second segment. The rear inflatable section may comprise a first segment and a second segment.

The front inflatable section may extend between the two lateral inflatable sections. The rear inflatable section may extend between the two lateral inflatable sections.

The gripping section/portion may comprise a central inflatable section which extends from the rear inflatable section to the front inflatable section. Preferably, in the inflated configuration, the central inflatable section is parallel to both the lateral sections. Preferably, in the inflated configuration, the central section is located mid-way between the two lateral inflatable sections.

Preferably the inflatable sections form a network or mesh. Preferably the inflatable sections are integral with each other. Preferably internal volumes of the inflatable sections are in permanent fluid communication with each other.

Preferably the first void comprises an aperture or opening through the inflatable member. Preferably the second void comprises an aperture or opening through the inflatable member. Preferably the first void is defined within a first substantially torus shaped inflatable network and the second void is defined within a second substantially torus shaped inflatable network wherein the two torus inflatable networks may share a common inflatable section which may comprise the gripping section/portion. Preferably the first void is defined within a first substantially (quadrilateral/square/rectangular) annular inflatable network and the second void is defined within a second substantially (quadrilateral/square/rectangular) annular inflatable network wherein the two annular inflatable networks may share a common inflatable section which may comprise the gripping section/portion.

Preferably the inflatable member comprises a first front (distal) corner and a second front (distal) corner. Preferably these comers comprise flattened (or planar) surfaces or angled surfaces. Preferably these front corners are formed at the intersection of the lateral sections and the front section. Preferably the front

-5corners stabilise the birthing aid and help to retain/maintain the birthing aid in position whilst in use. Preferably the front corners provide (angled) surfaces which deflect/direct squeezing/compressing forces from a lateral inward direction towards an (lateral) inward and (longitudinal) rearward direction. This redirected (longitudinal) rearward force may help to maintain the position of the birthing aid and may help to prevent the birthing aid from being squeezed and expelled from a desired position in the birth canal.

Preferably the inflatable member comprises a first rear (proximal) corner and a second rear (proximal) corner. Preferably these corners comprise flattened (or planar) surfaces or angled surfaces. Preferably these rear corners are formed at the intersection of the lateral sections and the rear section. Preferably the rear corners stabilise the birthing aid and help to retain/maintain the birthing aid in position whilst in use. Preferably the rear corners provide (angled) surfaces which deflect/direct squeezing/compressing forces from a lateral inward direction towards an (lateral) inward and (longitudinal) forward direction. This redirected (longitudinal) forward force may help to maintain the position of the birthing aid and may help to prevent the birthing aid from being squeezed and expelled from a desired position in the birth canal.

Preferably the birthing aid comprises an inflator.

Preferably the inflator comprises a reusable inflator.

The inflator may comprise a CO2 (or other gas) inflation cartridge.

The inflator may comprise a reusable CO2 (or other gas) inflator for use with single use cartridges containing a set amount of CO2 (or other gas)

Preferably the inflator is arranged to deliver a predetermined or set amount of gas on actuation which may be determined by a 20 gram CO2 (or other gas) cartridge.

-6Preferably the inflator comprises a replaceable canister or cartridge.

Preferably the inflator comprises a trigger which upon actuation causes compressed gas to be released through the supporting member and to the inflatable member.

Preferably the birthing aid comprises a supporting member on which the inflatable member is secured. The supporting member may comprise an elongate member. Preferably the supporting member comprises a linear elongate member extending from a proximal end to a distal end.

The supporting member may comprise a resiliently flexible member.

Preferably the supporting member is arranged to aid the insertion of the inflatable member within the birth canal.

The distal end of the inflatable member may be secured at or towards the distal end of the supporting member and the proximal end of the inflatable member may be secured along the length of the supporting member.

Preferably the supporting member provides the inflatable member with a sufficient degree of rigidity between the proximal end and the distal end for the inflatable member to be pushed through the birth canal of the animal.

The inflatable member may be inserted in a wrapped configuration in which the inflatable member is wrapped around the supporting member. The supporting member may be located in a central position relative to the inflatable member and the supporting member may substantially bisect the inflatable member along a longitudinal axis and the two lateral half portions may be offset around the supporting member by 180 degrees and the two lateral portions may be wrapped around the supporting member in an overlapping formation.

-7The supporting member may be partially located in or contained in the inflatable member.

In an inflated configuration, the supporting member may locate centrally (mid-way) between outer lateral surfaces of the inflatable member. In an inflated configuration, the supporting member may locate centrally (mid-way) between an upper surface and a lower surface of the inflatable member.

The elongate portion may comprise a linear elongate portion.

A proximal end of the elongate portion may comprise a handle which may be arranged, in use, to be held by user.

The supporting member may comprise a connector for connecting an inflator thereto. The connector may be located at or towards the proximal end of the supporting member.

The supporting member may comprise a hollow member having a fluid exit wherein the fluid exit is arranged to locate within the inflatable member. The fluid exit means may comprise one or more apertures located along the length of the hollow supporting member. The or each aperture may be located towards the distal end of the supporting member. The or each aperture may locate centrally (mid-way) between the proximal end and the distal end of the inflatable member. The apertures may locate and spaced along the supporting member between the proximal end and the distal end of the inflatable member.

The supporting member may have a pressure release means located thereon. The pressure release means may be in communication with the central passageway of the supporting member and enable pressure from within the inflatable member to be released. The pressure release means may comprise a pressure release valve.

-8The inflatable bladder may be located along the elongate portion.

The inflatable bladder may be bonded to the elongate portion.

Contractions of the animal may tend to urge the inflatable member out of the birth canal but the gripping portion means may prevent this and retain the inflatable member within the birth canal.

Preferably the gripping portion prevents or inhibits the inflatable member being expelled or urged out of the birth canal. Preferably the gripping portion enables the forces of contractions within the birth canal to be counteracted and retain the inflatable member within the birth canal.

The birthing aid may comprise fluid introduction means and preferably comprises gas/CO2 introduction means.

The fluid introduction means may comprise a pump. Preferably the pump comprises a hand pump.

The fluid introduction means may comprise a connector.

The birthing aid may comprise fluid release means.

The fluid release means may comprise gas/CO2 release means.

The gas/CO2 release means may comprise a gas/CO2 release valve. Preferably the gas/CO2 release valve comprises a manually actuated gas/CO2 release valve. The gas/CC>2 release valve may comprise a push button or squeeze release valve. The gas/CC>2 release valve may comprise a twist or rotatable actuator.

The gas/CO2 release valve may be operable for the user to determine the rate of release of gas/CO2 from the inflatable bladder.

-9The gas/CC>2 release means may comprise a gas/CO2 outlet.

The supporting member may provide fluid communication means comprising a conduit.

The fluid communication means may comprise a junction with a tube extending to fluid introduction means and an aperture extending to fluid release means.

The inflatable bladder may have a substantially rectangular cross section when inflated.

The birthing aid may comprise pressure indication means to indicate the pressure within the inflatable bladder. The indication means may comprise a visual gauge.

The birthing aid may comprise pressure release means which may be arranged, in use, to automatically release pressure from the inflatable bladder if the pressure exceeds a predetermined value.

Preferably the flexible bladder comprises a resilient bladder.

Preferably the livestock animal comprises a placental animal and may be of the order Perissodactyla (horse, zebra, tapir, rhinoceros, etc.) or the order Artiodactyla (pigs, camels, cattle, deer, etc.). More preferably the animal comprises a cow and the birthing aid assists in the delivery of a calf.

The supporting member may comprise an elongate portion and may comprise a linear elongate portion.

A proximal end of the elongate portion may comprise a handle which may be arranged, in use, to be held by user.

-10The inflatable bladder may be located along the elongate portion. Preferably the inflatable bladder is secured around the elongate portion. The inflatable bladder may be located at or adjacent to the distal end of the elongate portion.

The elongate portion may be at least partially contained within the inflatable member.

Contractions of the animal may tend to urge the inflatable member out of the birth canal but the gripping portion may prevent this and retain the inflatable member within the birth canal.

Preferably the gripping portion prevents or inhibits the inflatable member being expelled or urged out of the birth canal. Preferably the gripping portion counteracts the forces of contractions within the birth canal and retains the inflatable member within the birth canal.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of assisting a livestock animal in the birthing process comprising inserting an inflatable member into the birth canal of the animal and inflating the inflatable member whilst located in the birth canal, wherein the inflatable member comprises:

a flexible bladder; and fluid communication means to enable the bladder to be inflated and deflated, the inflatable member further comprising:

a proximal end, a central section, and a distal end located along a longitudinal axis of the inflatable member and, in which, in use, the proximal end is arranged to locate within the birth canal towards the vulva of the animal, the central section is arranged to locate within a centre section of the birth canal and the distal end is arranged to locate at a distal end of the birth canal of the animal, and wherein the central section extends between a first lateral side and a second lateral side;

-11 wherein a lateral width of the inflatable member is greater than a longitudinal length of the inflatable member in order for the inflatable member to inflate to a greater dimension in the lateral direction than in the longitudinal direction;

the central section defining a first void and a second void separated by a gripping section and, in which in use, the gripping section is manually held by a user to maintain a position of the inflatable member within the birth canal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the drawings that follow, in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a birthing aid.

Figure 2 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a birthing aid.

Figure 3 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a birthing aid.

Figure 4 is a plan view of a preferred embodiment of a birthing aid.

Figure 5 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of a birthing aid.

Figure 6 is a front view of a preferred embodiment of a birthing aid in a wrapped configuration ready for insertion.

Figure 7 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of an inflation system for the birthing aid.

Figure 8 is a side view showing another embodiment of a gas release mechanism in a closed position.

-12 Figure 9 is a side view showing another embodiment of a gas release mechanism in an open position.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The birthing aid 10 is particularly designed for use in assisting the successful birthing of calves. The main aim of the birthing aid 10 is to assist the cow as naturally as possible. The birthing aid 10 aims to assist by stimulating the cow to physically adapt and biologically adapt in order to make the subsequent passage of the calf through the birth canal as easy as possible. As mentioned previously, it is commonplace for cows to have difficulties when calving, generally known as dystocia which always requires assistance and often necessitates a caesarean section.

The birthing aid is not restricted for use with cows but is suitable for numerous different types of animals and, in particular, livestock animals. The term “livestock” is used with a broad definition and preferably includes non-human animals and, in particular, includes all animals raised in an agricultural setting and could include captive wild animals. For example, this includes any breed of animal kept for a useful and/or commercial purpose and can mean domestic animals, semidomestic animals and/or captive wild animals. Some types of livestock animals within this definition are: alpaca, banteng, bison, camel, cattle (including cows), deer, donkey, gayal, goat, horse, llama, mule, pig, reindeer, sheep, water buffalo and yak. Such a list would also include ungulates (and particularly domesticated ungulates). The present invention may be particularly suited for use with bovine animals.

The birthing aid 10 provides an inflatable member 12 which is arranged to be positioned within the birth canal of the cow prior to the passage of the calf through the birth canal. Once correctly positioned, the inflation of the inflatable member 12 within the birth canal thereby expands the birth canal in order to provide an expanded birth canal for the calf to pass through. Furthermore, this expansion

-13stimulates the cow to adapt physically and biologically such that the pelvic joints of the cow may become more flexible and the cow may be stimulated to produce hormones in order to assist in the successful birth of the calf.

Once the inflatable member 12 is in the correct position, there is a significant chance that the cow may urge the inflatable member 12 out from the birth canal, for example, during contractions. Accordingly, the birthing aid 10 provides a manual gripping portion which acts to provide retaining means in order to retain the inflatable member 12 in position within the birthing canal during these contractions. The user can then decide when the birth canal is prepared and ready for the passage of the calf and the user can simply remove the birthing aid

10.

The basic principle behind the invention has been described above but the preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in more detail below.

In the preferred embodiment of the birthing aid 10, as shown in Figure 1, the retaining means for maintaining the inflatable member 12 within the birth canal during contractions is provided by a gripping portion 20 defined by a part of the inflatable member 12. In particular, this gripping portion comprises a tubular inflated section 30 located centrally within the inflatable member 12.

The inflatable member 12 comprises a network or mesh of inflatable sections that are all effectively integral and in fluid communication with each other. The inflatable member comprises two lateral section 32, 33, a front (distal) section 34 and a rear (proximal) section 35. Each section 32, 33, 34, 35 comprises a tubular inflatable section or airbeam. The overall arrangement resembles a figure “8” when viewed from above (see Figure 4) or below. The gripping portion 20 is provided by the central tubular section 30.

The network defines voids or openings 36, 37 in the inflatable member 12 and in

-14particular there are two opening 36, 37 which are separated by the gripping portion

20. Accordingly, these openings 36, 37 enable a user to easily and securely grip the gripping portion 20. The first opening 36 is defined by the front section 34, the rear section 35, the gripping portion 20 (middle section 30) and the first lateral side section. The second opening 37 is defined by the front section 34, the rear section 35, the gripping portion 20 (middle section 30) and the second lateral side section 33. The lateral surfaces of the gripping portion enable a user to securely grasp and hold the gripping portion with a single hand.

The gripping portion 20 extends along the longitudinal direction of the inflatable member 12. This provides a gripping portion 20 which is easily gripped by the hand of a user. This orientation also enables the user to apply the retaining force to keep and maintain the inflatable member 12 within the birth canal and counteract any urging forces trying to expel the inflatable member 12. In addition, a user can easily extract the inflatable member 12 when required.

The inflatable sections 30, 32, 33, 34, 35 comprise inflatable airbeams. The inflatable sections 30, 32, 33, 34, 35 are all integral and form a single inflatable member in the form of a figure of eight. This configuration provides a distal laterally extending member 34 and a proximal laterally extending member 35. These are maintained spaced apart by two longitudinally extending members 32, together with the central longitudinally extending member 30.

The voids are provided by apertures/openings or passageways which extend through the inflatable member 12 from an upper surface to a lower surface. Each void is preferably located within a quadrilateral/square/rectangular torus or doughnut shape with each sharing a common side provided by the gripping portion

20. This results in a figure of “8” shaped inflatable member. The birthing aid 10 has a landscape configuration rather than a portrait configuration such that the lateral width is greater than the longitudinal length. The supporting member 14 projects and extends outwardly from the longer (proximal/rear) end of the inflatable member 12.

The inflatable member 12 may comprise two layers, an upper layer and a lower layer to produce a sandwich effect. These layer may be formed by the construction and manufacturing process and may result from bonding the lower layer to the upper layer. This results in the inflatable member having a central seam which extends around the inflatable member and joins the upper layer to the lower layer. Similarly, joins may be located between the individual sections which may be formed during manufacture and the joining/bonding of individual sections to form the inflatable member.

As shown in Figure 2 and Figure 4, the inflatable member is provided with stabilising portions 40 located at the corners which aim to prevent movement of the inflatable member whilst located in positon. These stabilising portions comprise “flat” or planar surfaces which are formed at each corner. These surfaces act to redirect the inward squeezing forces that inevitably act on the birthing aid. In particular, the front comers (stabilising portions 40) redirect the inward forces in order to be directed inwardly and rearwardly. This helps to maintain the desired position of the birthing aid 10. Similarly, the rear comers (stabilising portions 40) redirect the inward forces in order to be directed inwardly and forwardly. Again, this helps to maintain the desired position of the birthing aid

10. Overall, squeezing/contracting forces cause the front stabilising portions 40 to urge the front parts rearwardly and the rear stabilising portions 40 urge the rear parts forwardly. Accordingly, the squeezing/contracting forces tend to urge the inflatable member further into the birth canal rather than out of the birth canal.

The inflatable member 12 is totally contained/located within the birth canal such that no extremities of the inflatable member project outwardly to provide external projecting retaining portions. The stabilising portions 40 effectively serve this function by redirecting the compressing/squeezing inward forces which urge the inflatable member 12 further into the birth canal either from the front end or from the rear end.

-16Since the inflatable member comprises a resilient material, there is a low (or no) risk of any internal damage being inflicted on the animal by the birthing aid 10.

The inflatable member 12 is arranged, in use to be located in, and thereafter retained within, the birth canal. The outer cross-section of the inflatable member 12 is dimensioned to expand to a suitable size to expand the birth canal for the animal. For example, different dimensioned birthing aids 10 may be provided for different sized and/or types of livestock animals.

The inflatable member 12 comprises a flexible resilient bladder which is secured or bonded to a supporting member 14 comprising an elongate member. In particular, the inflatable member 12 comprising the flexible resilient bladder is secured towards or adjacent to an upper (distal) end of the elongate supporting member

14.

An external part of the supporting member 14 may be angled, as shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 or the external section/length may be substantially linear, as shown in Figures 3, 4 and 5. In addition, the external section of the supporting member may be flexible or have a flexible elbow such that the supporting member 14 may be moved/flexed between the angled orientation shown in Figures 1 and 2 and the orientation shown in Figures 3, 4, and 5.

The supporting member 14 comprises a resilient member which is flexible to a degree to reduce the risk of harming the animal. The supporting member 14 preferably comprises a plastics material. The inflatable bladder 12 is sealingly attached around the supporting member 14 at a first end 15. This may comprise an entry portion of the inflatable bladder being stretched around the supporting member 14 and this entry portion may be folded over itself to increase the natural sealing force. This sealing force may be supplemented by a further attachment strap or clamp which locates around the periphery of this entry portion. For example, a hose clamp type securement device may be used.

-17 The inflatable bladder 12 is also attached to the supporting member 14 at or adjacent to the distal tip of the supporting member 14. The inflatable member 12 may be provided with a recess 19 or pocket for engaging the tip of the supporting member 14. A securement strap may then be used to retain the tip of the supporting member 14 within this recess 19. These attachments result in the inflatable bladder 12 effectively having a spine as provided by the supporting member 14. This greatly improves the ability of the birthing aid 10 to be correctly and easily inserted within the birth canal. The spine provides longitudinal reinforcement and/or strength to the inflatable member 12 which would otherwise have no strength along the longitudinal length thereof.

The supporting member 14 includes a gas entry 17 for the inflatable member 12 in order for gas to be introduced from the inflatable member 12. The gas entry 17 is in communication with a gas conduit 18 provided along the central elongate longitudinal axis of the supporting member 14. The supporting member 14 is hollow and effectively provides a conduit 18 for gas to enter and exit the inflatable bladder 12.

At the proximal end of the supporting member 14, there is provided connection means 17 which connects the inflatable member 12 to gas input 60 and/or release means 16. In particular, this connection means 17 comprises a connector in the form of a valve for engaging an inflator 60.

The supporting member 14 provides a gas conduit 18 comprising a pipe which at least partially locates within the inflatable member 12. In particular, the supporting member 14 comprises a hollow tube which extends from a proximal end all the way to a distal end at the longitudinal end of the supporting member 14. The supporting member 14 comprises a handle section 40 at or towards the proximal end thereof to enable a user to grip the supporting member 14.

The gas conduit 18 includes a side passageway whereby an aperture extends to gas release means 16 located along the length of the supporting member 14.

-18The gas release means may include a pressure release button/actuator comprising a valve. The valve is a manual valve. In particular, the user may simply turn an actuator or press an actuator button in order to enable gas to be released from the inflatable member 12. The actuation may be manually adaptable to vary the speed of release of gas from the inflatable member 12. The gas in the inflatable member 12 will be naturally of a pressure such that the gas will actually release and escape through the gas outlet and will not require any vacuum or suction means.

In another embodiment of the gas release means, a shroud 70, sleeve or cover is arranged to seal a gas exit aperture 72 located along the conduit 18 provided by the supporting member 14, as shown in Figure 8 and Figure 9. In the closed position (shown in Figure 8) the shroud 70 locates over the top of the gas exit aperture and prevents any gas from escaping from the conduit 18 and hence the inflatable bladder 12. The gas release means includes sealing means in the form of two Ό’ rings 74 which create a seal when the shroud 70 is in the closed position. In order to open the gas release means the user grasps the valve 17 and/or the shroud 70 and this is pulled slightly upwards (or away from the inflatable bladder 12) and then twisted (or rotated). This movement of the shroud 70 then allows the compressed gas to escape via the hole/gas exit aperture 72, as shown in Figure 9. The shroud may be engaged with urging means or biasing means such that in the absence of any external forces, the shroud is automatically returned to the closed position, as shown in Figure 8.

At or towards a distal end section of the supporting member 14, the supporting member 14 comprises a number of gas exit apertures 11 to enable the gas to be delivered to the inflatable bladder 12 (as shown in Figure 5). These gas exit apertures 11 are located spaced apart along a part of the longitudinal length of the supporting member 12.

In some embodiments, these gas exit apertures 11 may be located along

-19substantially the full length of the internal section of the supporting member 14. Alternatively, these gas exit apertures may be located along a central length of the supporting member such that there are no gas exit apertures along a distal length or proximal length of the supporting member 14.

The proximal end of the supporting member 14 is connectable to gas introduction means in the form of an inflator 60 (as shown in Figure 7). In particular, this comprises a reusable inflator 60 including a replaceable pressurised cartridge system. The inflator 60 is arranged to be held in one hand of the user and a trigger can be operated in order to force gas into the inflatable member 12. The reusable inflator 60 has a gas inlet 62 which extends therefrom.

The inflator 60 is provided with a guard to prevent the hand of a user from being in direct contact with the cartridge. On release of the pressure from the cartridge, the temperature of the cartridge will drop significantly and this may even cause the cartridge to freeze to the hand of a user or and/or cause a freeze bum to the user. The guard protects against such injuries occurring.

The inflator 60 is arranged to deliver a set amount of gas and this will therefore inflate the inflatable member 12 to a predetermined size. The size of cartridge for the inflator 60 will therefore be selected to inflate the bladder 12 to the correct size for the birth canal of the animal. This set delivery system does not require the user to use any skill and judgement when inflating the bladder and thereby deskills this aspect in the use of the birthing aid 10. This significantly increases the safety in the use of birthing aids of this type. In the preferred embodiment, the inflator 60 uses a 20 gram CO2 cartridge to inflate the bladder 12 by the correct amount.

The present invention prevents the user from having to think about and worry about the extent of inflation of the bladder 12. Furthermore, the user will be able to use both hands to stabilise the position of the bladder 12 during inflation and the user does not have to try and operate a manual pump with one hand whilst stabilising the position with the other hand during inflation.

-20Initially, the inflatable member 12 is arranged to be wrapped around the supporting member 14 in order to provide a relatively thin or narrow and compact unit to be inserted through the birth canal, as shown in Figure 6.

In particular, the inflatable member 12 is wrapped or coiled around the supporting member in an overlapping configuration. In a plan view, as shown in Figure 4, the supporting member 14 is located within the inflatable member 12 in a central position such that the supporting member 14 effectively bisects the inflatable member 12 into two lateral sections. These lateral sections are essentially overlapped on each other and wrapped around the supporting member to provide a cylindrical device (as shown in Figure 6) for insertion into the birth canal. The ability of the birthing aid 10 to be temporarily wrapped into this configuration significantly aids the insertion of the birthing aid 10 to the correct position. The natural elasticity will cause these lateral sections to partially unwrap once placed in position. The subsequent inflation of the inflatable member 12 will complete the unwrapping as the lateral section expand into the final inflated configuration, as shown in Figures 1 to 5.

In use, the user inserts the birthing aid 10 into the birth canal with the inflatable member 12 in a deflated configuration and in the wrapped or coiled configuration. The user then correctly positions the inflatable member 12 within the birth canal with the gripping portion 30 of the inflatable member 12 being located internally of the cow. The user can insert their arm to correctly position the device 10.

Once the inflatable member 12 is correctly positioned within the birth canal of the cow, the user can then begin to inflate the inflatable member 12 using the inflator 60. One hand of the user may be gripping the handle portion 40 whilst the free hand of the user can easily operate the trigger of the inflator 60 in order to inflate the inflatable member 12 to the required predetermined pressure.

The inflatable member 12 will start to replicate the size and shape of the

-21 presenting foetus. The inflation of the inflatable member 12 causes the birth canal to dilate and the inflatable member 12 stretches the muscles and vaginal tissue and the surrounding tissue of the cow. The final inflated configuration is shown in Figures 1 to 5.

During labour, the contractions of the muscles and tissue may naturally produce a force urging the inflatable member 12 outwardly. However, the user can manually grip and hold the gripping portion 20 with their hand such that the inflatable member 12 will be continually held within the birth canal during these contractions.

After a period of time, the user may decide that the birth is imminent and that the birth canal has been stretched and dilated sufficiently. The birthing aid 10 can then be removed. Once the birth canal has been sufficiently dilated, the inflatable member 12 can be partially deflated and the user can again use the gripping portion 20 to pull the inflatable member outwardly. Alternatively, the handle 40 can be used to pull the birthing aid outwardly once the inflatable member has been deflated.

If required, the inflatable member 12 can be completely or partially deflated using the gas release mechanism 16 prior to removal.

The labour may then progress as normal but the labour should now be easier and less problematic. The birthing aid 10 aims to prevent tearing and/or lacerations occurring in the muscles and tissues during the birthing process. Since the muscles and tissues have been stretched, the muscles and tissues should yield whilst the calf passes through the birth canal.

The birthing process can then continue naturally with the benefit of the birth canal having been initially stretched and dilated.

The present invention provides a vaginal obturator prior to birth and effectively dilates and stretches the muscles and tissues surrounding the birth canal. This initial stretching and dilation may reduce the risks of tearing and lacerations of the muscles and tissues and also means that the muscles and tissues will yield whilst giving birth. This initial stretching and dilation also stimulates the cow to provide natural reactions which may also aid the birth, for example the pre-stretching and dilation may stimulate the cow to produce hormones to affect the collagen which may increase the elasticity of muscles, tendons, ligaments and tissues of the birth canal prior to delivery.

The birthing aid 10 may be manufactured from a plastics material and/or latex. The birthing aid 10 may be manufactured from a material to inhibit or prevent the introduction of infections into the animal.

The birthing aid 10 may also be used with lubricants to aid the insertion and/or withdrawal.

The inflatable member may be secured to and/or bonded to the birthing aid to ensure that the inflatable member 12 is retained firmly to the birthing aid 10 and cannot become dislodged from the birthing aid 10.

In summary, the birthing aid for cattle is a non-surgical, non-drug-based, nonmechanical product that facilitates natural birth in cases of dystocia and does not risk harming the cow or the calf.

The birthing aid is constructed from high grade thermoplastic rubber/thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) which is a product that can be easily recycled.

The design of the product with strategically placed stabilising surfaces (retaining surfaces) or flats at each end is such that the stabilising surfaces or flats will prevent the birthing aid moving whilst inside the birth canal thus obviating any discomfort or internal damage to the cow.

The plastic tubing which runs right through the birthing aid delivers and removes

-23air from the lower part of the inflatable pocket thus facilitating easy deflation upon removal and provides the rigidity required in insertion and removal.

A rubber grip is positioned on the plastic tubing to aid controlled insertion positioning and removal.

The tubing protrudes approximately 56mm from the birthing aid where it is attached to the inflation mechanism.

The inflation method is by way of a predetermined value CO2 cartridge in a hand held device which, when activated, inflates the birthing aid to the optimum air pressure ensuring comfort to the cow and also obviating any danger of overinflation.

A pressure release valve is situated on the plastic tube near the valve.

The birthing aid can be used up to five times before a replacement is needed and is easily cleaned using the cleaning kit provided and which is also available separately.

The dimensions of a preferred embodiment of the birthing aid 10 are as follows: lateral width 383mm (15 1/4), longitudinal length 239mm (9 3/4) and depth 51mm (2). The birthing aid of these dimensions may be suitable for all type/breeds and sizes of cow such that only a single sized birthing aid may be required rather than a user having to obtain and maintain numerous different sizes.

In alternative embodiments, the birthing aid may include a medical grade natural rubber inflatable bladder.

A hand grip and/or gripping portion is provided to aid the insertion, stability and withdrawal of the device. The rigid inflating tube 14 is also used for guidance whilst inserting and removing. A pressure release button or actuator in cooperation with

-24a valve enables the inflation bladder to be quickly and easily deflated in a controlled manner. The birthing aid 10 includes a CO2 inflation tool 60 including a 20gram CO2 cartridge. The inflation tube extends all the way through the inflatable bladder 14 to a tip. The tube 14 includes inflation/deflation holes 11 at the end section to enable easier removal. Finally, the birthing aid comprises a standard Schrader valve 17 to help the device be universal and adaptable.

The present invention is for use with, but not necessarily limited to, cattle. In particular, the present invention may be for use with beef/suckler herds, horses and sheep

The present invention may be used when the water sac bursts, which may be up to six hours before the actual birth, and the walls of the unsupported womb may collapse. Endocrines are naturally released and the brain tells the body that it is in pain which results in more difficulty in the birthing process. The vet or stockman would insert the birthing aid when the waters break and then inflate the device. The birthing aid inflates to the internal shape of the womb which allows the muscles to activate again to hold the walls of the womb in place and bring comfort to the cow. The pelvic floor in most cow's measures 300-350mm in length and the birthing aid may be in situ for approximately 15 minutes and then deflated at the critical moment facilitating an easier and safer birth for both cow and calf. The birthing aid can also be used after the calf's legs have passed through the birth canal but when there is a need for a wider passage to accommodate the head and/or shoulders of large calves.

Claims (16)

1. According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a birthing aid for livestock animals comprising an inflatable member, the inflatable member comprising:

a flexible bladder; and fluid communication means to enable the bladder to be inflated and deflated, the inflatable member further comprising:

a proximal end, a central section, and a distal end located along a longitudinal axis of the inflatable member and, in which, in use, the proximal end is arranged to locate within the birth canal towards the vulva of the animal, the central section is arranged to locate within a centre section of the birth canal and the distal end is arranged to locate at a distal end of the birth canal of the animal, and wherein the central section extends between a first lateral side and a second lateral side;

wherein a lateral width of the inflatable member is greater than a longitudinal length of the inflatable member in order for the inflatable member to inflate to a greater dimension in the lateral direction than in the longitudinal direction;

the central section defining a first void and a second void separated by a gripping section and, in which in use, the gripping section is manually held by a user to maintain a position of the inflatable member within the birth canal.

2. A birthing aid for livestock animals according to Claim 1 in which the inflatable member comprises two lateral inflatable sections, a front inflatable section and a rear inflatable section and in which the front inflatable section extends between the two lateral inflatable sections and the rear inflatable section extends between the two lateral inflatable sections and the gripping section comprises a central inflatable section which extends from the rear inflatable section to the front inflatable section and, in an inflated configuration, the central inflatable section is parallel to both the lateral sections and the central inflatable section is located mid-way between the two lateral inflatable sections.

3. A birthing aid for livestock animals according to Claim 2 in which the inflatable sections form a network and the inflatable sections are integral with each other and wherein internal volumes of the inflatable sections are in permanent fluid communication with each other.

4. A birthing aid for livestock animals according to any preceding claim in which the first void comprises an opening through the inflatable member and the second void comprises an opening through the inflatable member.

5. A birthing aid for livestock animals according to Claim 4 in which the first void is defined within a first substantially torus shaped inflatable network and the second void is defined within a second substantially torus shaped inflatable network wherein the two torus inflatable networks share a common inflatable section which comprises the gripping section.

6. A birthing aid for livestock animals according to any preceding claim in which the first void is defined within a first substantially annular inflatable network and the second void is defined within a second substantially annular inflatable network wherein the two annular inflatable networks share a common inflatable section which comprises the gripping section.

7. A birthing aid for livestock animals according to Claim 2 in which the inflatable member comprises a first front corner and a second front corner and wherein the front comers comprise angled surfaces and in which the angled surfaces direct compressing forces from a lateral inward direction towards an lateral inward and longitudinal rearward direction and, in which, the redirected rearward force helps to maintain the position of the birthing aid and helps to prevent the birthing aid from being squeezed and expelled from a desired position in the birth canal.

8. A birthing aid for livestock animals according to any preceding claim in which the inflatable member comprises a first rear corner and a second rear corner and the rear comers comprise angled surfaces and in which the angled surfaces direct compressing forces from a lateral inward direction towards and lateral inward and longitudinal forward direction and, in which, the redirected forward force helps to maintain the position of the birthing aid and helps to prevent the birthing aid from being squeezed and expelled from a desired position in the birth canal.

9. A birthing aid for livestock animals according to any preceding claim in which the birthing aid comprises a reusable inflator for use with single use cartridges containing a set amount of gas.

10. A birthing aid for livestock animals according to any preceding claim in which the birthing aid comprises a supporting member on which the inflatable member is secured and in which the supporting member comprises a linear elongate member extending from a proximal end to a distal end and wherein the supporting member comprise a resiliently flexible member.

11. A birthing aid for livestock animals according to Claim 10 in which the inflatable member is arranged to be inserted in a wrapped configuration wherein the inflatable member is wrapped around the supporting member.

12. A birthing aid for livestock animals according to Claim 11 in which the supporting member is located in a central position relative to the inflatable member and the supporting member substantially bisect the inflatable member along a longitudinal axis and two lateral half portions are be offset around the supporting member by 180 degrees and the two lateral portions are wrapped around the supporting member in an overlapping formation.

13. A birthing aid for livestock animals according to any one of Claim 10 to Claim 12 in which the supporting member is partially contained in the inflatable member.

14. A birthing aid for livestock animals according to any one of Claim 10 to Claim 13 in which the supporting member comprises a hollow member having a fluid exit wherein the fluid exit is arranged to locate within the inflatable member and wherein the fluid exit means comprise a plurality of apertures located along a length of the hollow supporting member.

15. A birthing aid for livestock animals according to Claim 14 in which the apertures locate towards the distal end of the supporting member.

16. A method of assisting a livestock animal in the birthing process comprising inserting an inflatable member into the birth canal of the animal and inflating the inflatable member whilst located in the birth canal, wherein the inflatable member comprises:

a flexible bladder; and fluid communication means to enable the bladder to be inflated and deflated, the inflatable member further comprising:

a proximal end, a central section, and a distal end located along a longitudinal axis of the inflatable member and, in which, in use, the proximal end is arranged to locate within the birth canal towards the vulva of the animal, the central section is arranged to locate within a centre section of the birth canal and the distal end is arranged to locate at a distal end of the birth canal of the animal, and wherein the central section extends between a first lateral side and a second lateral side;

wherein a lateral width of the inflatable member is greater than a longitudinal length of the inflatable member in order for the inflatable member to inflate to a greater dimension in the lateral direction than in the longitudinal direction;

the central section defining a first void and a second void separated by a gripping section and, in which in use, the gripping section is manually held by a user to maintain a position of the inflatable member within the birth canal.