EQPOD0001 - Hormonal Cycles and Regulation of Mares

Summary
In this podcast, Joss Mottershead discusses the importance of understanding mare hormones and how they can be manipulated to manage breeding cycles. He explains the role of progesterone and estrogen in the mare's reproductive process and how they affect receptivity to the stallion. Joss also discusses the use of prostaglandins and progestins in manipulating the mare's cycle, as well as the benefits of using a progesterone and estradiol combination. He recommends additional resources, such as peer-reviewed journals and the Equine Repro Facebook group, for further information on equine reproduction.

Takeaways

Understanding mare hormones is crucial for managing breeding cycles effectively.

• Progesterone plays a role in maintaining pregnancy and resisting stallion advances.
• Estrogen promotes receptivity to the stallion and increases immune response in the reproductive tract.
• Prostaglandins can be used to manipulate the mare's cycle, but their effectiveness depends on factors such as the presence of a receptive corpus luteum.
• The combination of progesterone and estradiol can be a useful tool for synchronizing mares and optimizing breeding timing.
• The progesterone releasing intravaginal device (PRID) is an alternative method for hormone manipulation.
• Additional resources, such as peer-reviewed journals and the Equine Repro Facebook group, provide valuable information on equine reproduction.