Effect of Estradiol Cypionate in Postparturient Dairy Cattle at Increased Risk for Metritis

Abstract

Metritis is a post-parturient uterine disease that affects fertility, milk production and health of dairy cattle. To reduce the effects of metritis, some dairymen have adopted fresh cow programs that often include the administration of 4 mg estradiol cypionate (ECP) to postparturient cows with retained fetal membranes. Estradiol is reported to have positive effects on uterine immune function. This study was conducted in order to determine if the administration of 4 mg of ECP to cows at high risk for metritis is efficacious in decreasing metritis in the first 10 days postpartum.