Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have a female that started ovulating on sunday and still has a significant med body swell tonight is that normal?

Aaron

I recommend that you not assume it to be ovulation and consider the possibility that they are enlarged follicles. If the swelling is predominately past mid-body (in the posterior part of the body) and the swelling subsides within 24 hours, then most likely it is ovulation. I have one female who swelled up like a balloon due to enlarging follicles. The pics fooled a couple of very experienced ball python breeders. If not ovulation, then now is a great time for her to be with a male. However, if you assume ovulation and it's not and discontinue breeding trials, then the likelihood of follicles ultimately being resorbed increases.

(NOTE: Most of this is recommendations relayed to me via the Barkers at vpi.com)

...During the last week or so of follicular development the follicles grow rapidly in size in prep of ovulation. FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) from the pituitary gland does this. Females will appear lumpy in the ovarian region, and depending upon the # of maturing follicles, this can be pronounced. Females will be receptive to mating, due to elevated levels of FSH, but because they can be somewhat uncomfortable, they may rebuke initial attempts by the male to breed. If the male persists the female will usually submit. This period of a few to several days prior to ovulation is the last chance to get sperm up in the oviducts so they're there for the ovulating follicles. The actual ovulation takes 12-18 hours or so. Once ovulation occurs there is declining estrogen secreted from the ovulated follicles, less feedback stimulation of the pituitary, declining FSH, thus declining receptivity (estrus) of the female.

Cool stuff!!
Scott J. Michaels DVM

Dr. Scott,

How long does this enlargment last? Right up until actual ovulation? If not, how long after the swelling does ovulation generally occur? I have a female that appears swelled up, but it has lasted a week or so.

thanks
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