Successful timing of ovulation using deslorelin (Ovuplant) is labour-saving in mares aimed for single ai with frozen semen.

The research article explores the use of deslorelin (Ovuplant) to successfully time ovulation in mares for single artificial insemination using frozen semen, making the process more efficient and increasing chances of pregnancy.

Research Aims and Methodology

• The research had three primary objectives. The first to establish the ovulation time in mares implanted with deslorelin (Ovuplant) when the largest follicle was 42 mm or more. The second target was to assess the repeatability of ovulation time in successive estrus cycles when treated with deslorelin. Lastly, the paper sought to investigate the pregnancy rate after a single insemination with frozen-thawed semen.
• The study included a total of 11 mares, with 17 timed ovulations in total. The growth of the follicular and ovulation was determined by rectal palpation and ultrasonography every two days. When a follicle of at least 42mm in diameter was observed, an Ovuplant was inserted into the vulva’s mucosa and the mares re-examined.
• Signs of ovulation were tracked by repeated palpation and ultrasonography 36-42 hours after the implant insertion. The mares were then inseminated once at the moment of ovulation with the thawed frozen semen.

Findings and Conclusion

• All of the mares in the study ovulated 36-48 hours post-treatment, with 94% ovulating 38-42 hours post treatment.
• Mares treated in two estrus cycles ovulated around the same time (39.9 and 39.7 hours, respectively).
• Nearly half (45.4%) of the mares inseminated with thawed frozen semen during the first estrus cycle successfully became pregnant between day 14-16 post ovulation.
• The research demonstrated that there is no need for nighttime palpation/ultrasonography and examination at 36 and 41 hours post-implantation could be sufficient to estimate ovulation time.
• Hence, the use of deslorelin (Ovuplant) to time ovulation in mares proves to be an efficient method in managing single artificial insemination using frozen semen. The process in turn could lower labour costs and increase the chances of successful pregnancies.