Strategies to Increase Fertility During Fixed-Time Artificial Insemination in Beef Cattle

Abstract

The application of Fixed Time Artificial Insemination (FTAI) protocols has strongly boosted artificial insemination in Brazilian bovine herds. The control of the estrous cycle with protocols based on progesterone and estrogen involves synchronizing the emergence of a follicular wave, controlling the progesterone phase, and inducing ovulation in a synchronized manner. The increase in pregnancy rates starts with the preparation of the breeding season and the choice of protocols and females. Thereafter, based on the characteristics of the property and the lots of animals, small adjustments can be made to the hormonal protocols as needed. Finally, resynchronization can increase usability by allowing multiple inseminations within short periods. The search for new strategies is of paramount importance for the development of the FTAI protocol and the increase in final pregnancy rates. Thus, this review sought to highlight the main critical points and adjustments of the FTAI protocols and their applicability in the reproduction of beef cattle.