Cervico-endometrial cytology and physiological aspects of the post-partum mare.

The research paper investigates the physiological aspects and cervico-endometrial cytology of Thoroughbred mares after parturition, comparing those that mated at the first post-partum oestrus with those that mated at a later cycle. The investigation includes daily examinations, pregnancy diagnoses, and considering a range of cellular and bacterial factors.

Research Methodology

• The study involved two groups of Thoroughbred mares — 24 mares that mated at the first post-partum oestrus (the initial period of fertility after giving birth), and 12 mares that mated at a later cycle.
• Each mare was subject to daily examinations which included detection of oestrus (heat), palpation (examination by touch) of the genital tract, vaginoscopic examination (inspection of the vagina and cervix), and cervico-endometrial cytology (study of cells from the cervix and endometrium).
• Pregnancy diagnoses were conducted on Days 18, 35, and 45 following mating.

Research Findings

• Both groups demonstrated an equivalent first service conception rate of 50%.
• It was observed that the numbers of neutrophils (white blood cells) declined to scattered cells by the first post-partum oestrus. In Group II mares, the level remained low for the duration of the study.
• The proportions of histiocytes (a type of immune cell) and eosinophils (cells that fight infection and inflammation) increased on specific postpartum days. The percentage of lymphocytes (white blood cells that are part of the immune system) maintained a low consistency throughout the study.
• Bacterial flora saw an initial decrease from Days 2 to 9 and then an increase from Days 13 to 17 post partum.
• Certain cellular occurrences, such as cellular necrosis (cell death), erythrocytes (red blood cells), and ciliocytopholia (increase in number of cells with cilia) tended to shift as the mares approached the first post-partum oestrus.
• A correlation was identified between qualities of secretions (amount, colour, viscosity, and turbidity) and certain cellular and bacterial factors.
• Neutrophil counts also showed positive correlation with eosinophils, bacterial flora, and cellular necrosis, but a negative correlation with the presence of ciliocytopholia.
• Two mares that did not resume cyclic ovarian activity post-partum experienced delayed uterine involution.
• Mares that did not conceive during the first post-partum oestrus tended to have prolonged presence of cellular necrosis and erythrocytes, and an increased presence of bacterial flora and lymphocytes.