Reproductive activity of dairy cattle in the postpartum anestrus period

Resumen

Objective: To review the metabolic and hormonal processes that regulate reproductive activity in dairy cattle
during the postpartum anestrus period.
Design/methodology/approach: Analysis of scientific documents and systematization of information related
to the reproductive physiology and management of dairy cattle in postpartum anestrus.
Results: Postpartum anestrus is an event that occurs naturally and is necessary for restoration of the homeostasis
of the cow’s body following calving. However, failure to reestablish this homeostasis actually increases its
duration and negatively affects the subsequent reproductive performance of the individual cow.
Limitations on study/implications: Reproductive management decisions must be based on scientific
knowledge.
Findings/conclusions: Management of dairy cattle in the postpartum anestrus period should focus on
reestablishment of the state of homeostasis and the subsequent reproductive activity, with nutritional and
hormonal strategies implemented to induce cyclicity, ovulation and formation of the first corpus luteum in that
period, through application of exogenous hormones after day ten postpartum.