Impact of proactive fresh cow protocol on first service conception rates

Recent US trials with the proactive AHV Uterine Health & Fertility Program have found a significant increase in first service conception rates. Participating cows achieved a conception rate of 42.1%, marking a 7.4% increase compared to the control group, which had a rate of 39.2%. This outcome underscores the program’s effectiveness in enhancing reproductive performance.

Introduction

Reproductive health is a cornerstone of profitability in dairy farming. Uterine health issues can severely impact reproductive efficiency, leading to economic losses. These issues can be broadly categorized into severe (visible) and mild (non-visible) conditions, both of which can result from persistent bacterial invasions. Such invasions can adversely affect not only uterine health but also disrupt normal ovarian function, leading to delayed conception and other reproductive issues.

Results

Trial Farm Information

Conducted over the years 2022 to 2023, the trial involved farms in California, Georgia, Florida, and Minnesota. The trial included over 14,000 animals in four different states.

Number of animals per group

Trial design

Before 10 DIM, the AHV Group received (1) Metri, (1) Aspi, and (1) Milk Start Paste, Control Group received nothing. Key points of the protocol include:

Other notes

1. Farm required to have 50 AHV cows total to be included in final analysis
2. Culled animals are included in data
3. Metri/Uterine Protocol < 10 DIM

Uterine Protocol: previous year vs. current year

Conclusion

The proactive AHV Uterine Health & Fertility Program has demonstrated a measurable impact on the reproductive success of dairy cows, as evidenced by the 7.4% increased first service conception rates.

By implementing proactive health measures, dairy farms can pave the way for healthier herds and enhanced economic viability.

Interested in optimizing the reproductive health of your herd? Schedule an appointment with an AHV Farm Advisor near you.

Recommendations

The AHV protocol recommends administering the Metri Bolus, Milk Start Bolus, and Aspi Bolus immediately post-calving. This proactive approach aims to minimize uterine health issues and enhance overall reproductive performance, leading to improved conception rates.

References

1. Sheldon, I.M., Noakes, D.E., & Dobson, H. (2000). The influence of ovarian activity and uterine involution determined by ultrasonography on subsequent reproductive performance of dairy cows. *Theriogenology*, 54(3), 409-419. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0093-691X(00)00358-7

2. Kasimanickam, R., Duffield, T.F., Foster, R.A., Gartley, C.J., Leslie, K.E., Walton, J.S., & Johnson, W.H. (2004). Endometrial cytology and ultrasonography for the detection of subclinical endometritis in postpartum dairy cows. *Theriogenology*, 62(1-2), 9-23. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.theriogenology.2003.03.001