Stages of Pregnancy in a Mare and Foal Birth

In the third phase of normal birth, the mare will usually lie down and labor begins. In a normal presentation, the amnionic tissue with one

 foot appears (in phase two) with the sole of the foot downward, the other foot appears next, and then the nose of the foal. Anything different from that and you should call your vet.

The foal delivers quickly after that initial presentation. The mare will remain lying down for a few minutes. This gives her time to rest and the blood to flow from her to the foal before breaking the umbilical cord. The cord will break naturally when she stands up—do not cut the cord as this may cause hemorrhaging.

Phase 4

The passing of the afterbirth or placenta is the fourth and final stage. This can happen a few minutes to one hour after the foal is born.

 Again, 

the mare will experience contractions and behave as though she has colic. This may continue even for a few hours after the placenta is expelled. Examine the afterbirth to be sure it is intact. Any part left inside the mare can cause infection and serious consequences. If the placenta is not expelled within two hours call your vet. A retained