RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN UTERUS INFECTIONS AND FERTILITY IN CATTLE

Abstract

Uterine infections in cows, particularly postpartum uterine diseases such as endometritis and metritis, are significant contributors to reproductive failure and economic loss in the dairy industry. These infections can lead to prolonged calving-to-conception intervals, increased culling rates, and reduced milk production, ultimately impacting herd profitability and animal welfare (Hossain et al., 2015; Rosales & Ametaj, 2021; Sheldon & Owens, 2017). The postpartum period is critical for the recovery of the uterus and the resumption of ovarian cyclicity, both of which are essential for successful conception. However, the presence of pathogenic bacteria can disrupt these physiological processes, leading to inflammation and impaired fertility (Raliou et al., 2019; LeBlanc, 2010). The etiology of uterine infections is multifactorial, often linked to factors such as retained placenta, calving difficulties, and compromised immune status (Onyango et al., 2014; Han et al., 2005). For instance, retained placenta can lead to an increased incidence of endometritis, which is characterized by inflammation of the endometrium and can significantly impair fertility (Han et al., 2005; Negasee et al., 2020). The inflammatory response associated with uterine infections can also alter the uterine environment, affecting the expression of genes related to reproductive function and leading to subclinical endometritis, which often goes undiagnosed but can still adversely affect fertility outcomes (Arias et al., 2018).