Reproductive activity of dairy cattle in the postpartum anestrus period

Objective: To review the metabolic and hormonal processes that regulate reproductive activity in dairy cattleduring the postpartum anestrus period.Design/methodology/approach: Analysis of scientific documents and systematization of information relatedto the reproductive physiology and management of dairy cattle in postpartum anestrus.Results: Postpartum anestrus is an event that occurs naturally and is necessary for restoration of the homeostasisof the cow’s body following calving. However, failure to reestablish this homeostasis actually increases itsduration and negatively affects the subsequent reproductive performance of the individual cow.Limitations on study/implications: Reproductive management decisions must be based on scientificknowledge.Findings/conclusions: Management of dairy cattle in the postpartum anestrus period should focus onreestablishment of the state of homeostasis and the subsequent reproductive activity, with nutritional andhormonal strategies implemented to induce cyclicity, ovulation and formation of the first corpus luteum in thatperiod, through application of exogenous hormones after day ten postpartum.