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Periparturient events in ovariectomized embryo transfer recipient mares
P L Sertich1, K Hinrichs, D E Schiereck
1Hofmann Center for Reproductive Studies, New Bolton Center University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine Kennett Square, PA 19348 USA.
Theriogenology
|August 1, 1988
Summary
Ovariectomized mares can successfully give birth, nurse foals, and become pregnant again after progesterone treatment. Ovarian function is not essential for normal parturition, lactation, or uterine involution.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Reproduction
- Equine Science
- Reproductive Physiology
Background:
- Ovariectomized mares require hormonal support for pregnancy maintenance via embryo transfer.
- Previous studies focused on pregnancy establishment, not postpartum outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate parturition, lactation, maternal behavior, and reproductive return in ovariectomized embryo transfer recipient mares.
- To compare periparturient events in ovariectomized and intact mares.
Main Methods:
- Comparison of three ovariectomized and three intact mares during the periparturient period.
- Monitoring of parturition, mammary scores, colostrum/milk production, plasma progesterone, and uterine involution (histological and clinical assessment).
- Subsequent embryo transfer in ovariectomized mares to assess reproductive capacity.
Main Results:
- All mares (ovariectomized and intact) foaled normally with adequate lactation and maternal care.
- Uterine involution was complete and similar in both groups by postpartum Day 10-11.
- Two of three ovariectomized mares established pregnancy after subsequent embryo transfer.
Conclusions:
- Normal parturition, lactation, maternal behavior, and uterine involution are independent of ovarian function in mares.
- Ovariectomized mares can achieve successful reproduction, including pregnancy, with appropriate hormonal management.
- This study demonstrates the potential for using ovariectomized mares as recipients for embryo transfer programs.
