From the Womb to the Tomb: Identifying Calving Deaths in Archaeology

ABSTRACT Dystocia, or difficult birth, is a major cause of maternal and neonatal mortality in both human and animal populations, yet its archaeological visibility remains remarkably low. This paper explores the diagnostic potential of archaeological deposits of pregnant livestock, particularly cattle, to identify cases of calving‐related mortality. A medieval cattle burial from Téteghem in northern France provides an illustration of a fetal malposition that resulted in the death of both mother and calf due to a retained right forelimb, a fairly common accident in cattle. An avulsion fracture on the calf's left metacarpal further suggests an attempt at forced extraction, implying the calving was attended, but by persons with little obstetrical training. Although the case of Téteghem is particularly illustrative, it is not unique. Drawing on examples from prehistoric to late modern contexts, we highlight other instances of fetal malpresentation, suspected uterine torsion, and maternal pelvic deformity, all suggestive of fatal obstetric complications. The reasons for which such cases are underreported are then explored, and we propose a series of best‐practice recommendations for field and lab work. Ultimately, greater awareness and systematic recording of obstetric pathologies in animal burials can offer valuable insights into past animal management, veterinary knowledge, and the economic impact of reproductive loss.