The role of non-specific uterine infection in the infertility of clinically normal repeat-breeder cows

Abstract

Hartigan, P.J., 1978. The role of non-specific uterine infection in the infertility of clinically normal repeat-breeder cows. Vet. Sci. Commun., I: 307-321.The role of non-specific bacteria in the infertility of clinically normal repeat-breeder cows is reviewed, and data are presented from a recent study in which bacteriological and histological samples were taken from the uteri of dairy cows at intervals during the non-gravid period.The evidence does not support the view that endometritis is an important cause of this infertility.In the absence of accurate counts 6f the bacteria present in the uterus at the time of service and during the subsequent oestrous cycle, it is impossible to determine whether pathogenic bacteria cause the infertility by injuring the gametes or the developing conceptus.A comprehensive quantitative study is needed of the microbiology of the uterus of the repeatbreeder cow at service and during the subsequent oestrous cycle.

Infection of the Bovine Female Genital Tract with Chlamydia psittaci as a Possible Cause of Infertility

“…In the literature there is considerable divergence of opinion regarding the incidence of bacteria in the non-pregnant bovine uterus. A number of workers found moderate to large numbers of bacteria (Graden et al, 1968;Griffin et al, 1974;Hartigan et al, 1972 a,b;Hartigan, 1978;Sagartz & Hardenbrook, 1971;Williams et al, 1988). Others, however, failed to isolate an appreciable number of bacteria and considered the normal bovine uterus to be free of bacteria about 60 days after parturition (Clark & Stevenson, 1949;Diker et al, 1989;Elliott et al, 1968;Noakes et al, 1989).…”

Subclinical Endometritis in Dairy Cattle

“…Studies have reported that 77% of infertile cows have endometritis [42]. Furthermore, histological evidence of endometritis was found in 50% of uterus samples obtained from an abattoir, although only 12.5% showed visible lesions [43]. These findings indicate the presence of endometritis in a significant number of cows, highlighting the potential impact of uterine infections on reproductive health [43].…”