Inducing Ovulation in Mares to Extend Luteal Phase
Author Information
Author(s): Ylva Hedberg, Anne-Marie Dalin, Malin Santesson, Hans Kindahl
Primary Institution: Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
Hypothesis
Can hCG treatment induce ovulation during the luteal phase in mares to prolong the luteal phase?
Conclusion
HCG treatment may effectively induce prolonged luteal phases in mares with a suitable follicle size.
Supporting Evidence
- Three of the hCG-treated mares ovulated within 72 hours after treatment.
- Prolonged luteal phases of 58, 68, and 82 days were observed in the treated mares.
- One control mare developed a spontaneously prolonged luteal phase of 72 days.
Takeaway
The study tested a method to help mares not go into heat by using a hormone shot, and it worked for some of them.
Methodology
Nine mares were divided into an experimental group treated with hCG and a control group treated with saline, followed by ultrasound and blood sampling for progesterone analysis.
Limitations
The study was preliminary and involved a small sample size, limiting the ability to draw definitive conclusions.
Participant Demographics
Mares aged 4 to 20 years, primarily Standardbred trotters.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website