Background: Postparturient apathy has always been a matter of concern for livestock owners keeping in view the associated problems and its consequential effects on production. In the present study, the efficacy of a polyherbal preparation on timely expulsion of fetal membranes was attempted in periparturient cows.Methods: The dairy animals were divided into 3 groups; first group of animals received herbal preparation once a day for 5 days as a prophylactic measure. The second group of animals was given herbal tonic as a therapy/treatment in cases where expulsion of fetal membranes was delayed. The third group served as control. Blood was collected at regular interval to assess innate immune response. Result: The herbal formulation succeeded in complete expulsion of fetal membranes within 3hrs and emerged as a promising prophylactic tool in preventing retention of placenta, with added effect in enhancing innate immunity as monitored by evident rise in leucocytic population. The animals in which the herbal formulation was given as therapy responded with expulsion of fetal membranes within 7-8 hours post treatment while in the control group complications were evident and required technical assistance in many cases. Administration of herbal liquid reduced the cases of ROP, enhanced local immune response as well as brought about an upgradation in the general health condition of the animals.

Maternal stress has been believed to have effect on the developing embryo and foetus in womb. Measuring and addressing stress is not yet part of structured antenatal protocols for pregnant women. The current study focuses on the association of perceived stress among pregnant women on maternal and foetal outcome.This was an observational cross-sectional study on 1000 pregnant women done during the period Nov 2010 to Nov 2012 at Fernandez Hospital, Hyderabad, India. Associations between maternal stress by PSS score and mode of delivery, duration of labour, and foetal outcomes were assessed. Statistical tools like K-Smirnov test, Fishers exact and Kruksal Wallis test were used wherever appropriate. Participant mothers ranged in age from 18 to 42 years. 41.4% were postgraduate. 6.6%, 86.6%, 6.8% had preterm, term and post term deliveries respectively. 799, 102, 95 were average for gestational age babies, large for gestational age babies and small for gestational age babies respectively. PSS (Perceived Stress Scale) questionnaire mean score was 30.73 with standard deviation of 2.44. There was no statistical difference with different modes of deliveries and various neonatal outcomes with third trimester PPS stress score in this study. Adequate counselling is essential to reduces the maternal stress at various stages of pregnancy and delivery. Assessment of stress should be an integral part of antenatal care.