Evaluation of prostaglandin F2α treatment in dairy cows at risk for low fertility after parturition

Abstract

Objective - To evaluate the effect of 2 postpartum prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) treatment protocols on reproductive performance of dairy cows at risk for low fertility. In addition, various medical conditions in cows that are recognized as having adverse effects on fertility were evaluated as criteria for fertility treatment. Design - Prospective study. Animals - 291 cows with, and 271 cows without, risk factors for low fertility. Procedure - Cows at risk for low fertility were randomly assigned to 2 treatment groups. Group-1 cows received 3 IM injections of PGF2α at weekly intervals after parturition, and group-2 cows received 1 IM injection of PGF2α 17 to 24 days after parturition. Results - Compared with a single PGF2α treatment 17 to 24 days after parturition, there was no added benefit of 3 treatments with PGF2α 3 to 10, 10 to 17, and 17 to 24 days after parturition in cows at risk for low fertility. Cows without risk factors for low fertility had 20% higher pregnancy rates, compared with cows with risk factors for low fertility. Twinning had a negative effect on future fertility. Clinical Implications - Results of this study indicate that further consideration should be given to the timing and intervals of PGF2α administration after parturition. Risk factors for low fertility, such as retained placenta, twins, and assisted calvings, are valid criteria to evaluate different treatment options to improve fertility in dairy cows.