Comparative Efficacy of Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (Progestin) Sponges with Co-Synch Protocol for Estrus Synchronization in Holstein Friesian Cattle

Abstract

The study involved forty non-pregnant, first-parity Holstein Friesian cows housed under semi-intensive management conditions. They were divided into four groups: Group A received a 7-day CIDR followed by a PGF2α injection, Group B received a 12-day CIDR followed by a PGF2α injection, Group C underwent a 10-day Co-Synch protocol, and Group D served as the control. Estrus symptoms were weak in all groups, while strong signs of standing heat were observed. Group B showed the highest estrus response, earliest onset of estrus, longest duration, and highest conception rate, resulting in positive pregnancies. In contrast, Group D had no pregnancies. These findings suggest that the extended CIDR treatment in Group B led to improved reproductive outcomes, indicating its potential as an effective method for estrus synchronization in Holstein Friesian cattle.