Luteal Function and Conception in Lactating Cows and Some Factors Affecting Luteal Function after Insemination

Abstract

Reduced steroidogenic capacity of the corpus luteum (CL) during early luteal phase has been reported to cause decreased fertility in cows. Higher concentrations of progesterone were observed in pregnant cows 5-10 days after artificial insemination (AI) compared to non-pregnant cows. However, the extent to which luteal sub-function affects fertility in high producing dairy cows is not clear. The present study, therefore, was undertaken to: 1) investigate the type and incidence of luteal sub-function after insemination; 2) to study the relationship between post-insemination luteal sub-function and conception rate; and 3) clarify the relationship of luteal function with parity, body condition score, milk yield and dietary intake.